Social Media Anxiety: A Second Generation Asian American Perspective

How many people have mindlessly scrolled on TikTok or juggled social media platforms like Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Tumblr? For second-generation AAPI individuals, social media has been a significant part of our lives, helping us connect with our community. However, it can also lead to unhealthy comparisons and feelings of imposter syndrome. In this blog post, we’ll explore the science behind these feelings and discuss how we can change our habits to foster a healthier relationship with social media.

The Pressure of Comparison

Social media platforms often showcase the highlights of our lives. Our Instagrams are curated to showcase our best days but not our worst, which can lead to unhealthy comparisons. With our elders already comparing us to others, social media only heightens the constant visibility of the “picture-perfect life,” especially when competition is a part of our culture. This can make us feel inadequate and inferior.

To better understand how social media impacts our mental health, let’s watch AasapSCIENCE’s insightful video. In it, they explore how constant exposure to curated lives can exacerbate anxiety. It’s essential for us to grasp this science and develop practical strategies for navigating social media in a way that honors our cultural heritage while prioritizing our mental well-being.

After watching this video, I encourage you to sit with this video and reflect upon how this can affect someone within the AAPI diaspora, where a culture of comparison and competition already exists.

Personal Stories and Experiences

Some second-generation Asian Americans use social media to connect with others, and it can be comforting to hear that someone else is experiencing similar experiences. At the same time, however, we must navigate the dual expectations of cultural norms and societal standards. 

Jennifer’s Thoughts on Personal Stories and Experiences

I use social media to connect with international friends or those with whom I don’t have other means of communication. However, I’ve also faced the downside—seeing people my age living what seems like “the picture-perfect life” can be disheartening.

Occasionally, a friend I’ve lost touch with or an ex-classmate will view my LinkedIn profile. I notice them thriving at leading companies in various fields, chasing the “American Dream” that motivated our AAPI families to come to America. Others have embraced parenthood and documented their experiences on social media. Meanwhile, I find myself in my room, listening to lo-fi music and work papers, frequently wondering, “What did they do right, and where did I falter?”

What I don’t realize every time my mind wanders—and what I hope you’ll consider—is that social media often presents a skewed reality. For every graduation photo in a cap and gown, you don’t see the countless hours spent in the library, week after week, to complete that degree. For the LinkedIn promotion post filled with congratulations, you don’t see all the hard work that went into being considered for that promotion. In engagement photos, we don’t know the couple's arguments or the tough days. For beautiful travel photos, we don’t see the less glamorous moments—all the wear and tear that got them there. 

Tips for Managing Social Media Anxiety

Navigating social media without succumbing to anxiety requires effective strategies. Kristin Gallucci’s TEDx Talk, “Social Media is Making Us Unsocial,” explores the paradox of “connection” on social media and offers valuable recommendations on reclaiming our relationships in an increasingly digital world.

After viewing Kristin Gallucci’s video, I invite you to pause and consider how her suggestions can help you rebuild your relationships—with yourself and others. What minor adjustments can you implement in your social media habits to cultivate deeper connections?

As second-generation AAPI individuals, it’s vital to prioritize our mental health as we navigate the complexities of social media. By recognizing the influence of comparison and embracing practices that promote self-acceptance, we can create a more fulfilling online experience that reflects our unique journeys and cultural backgrounds. Let’s empower ourselves to redefine success in a way that resonates with who we truly are.

DearTherapy Invitation

We invite you to comment on the insights from this blog post that you plan to implement in your life. Share your thoughts in the comments below!