319. Need for instant gratification on social media affects mental health
Dr. David Geier is an orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist in Charleston, South Carolina and Charlotte, North Carolina. He helps athletes and active people feel and perform their best, regardless of age, injuries and medical history. He has been featured in major media publications and shows over 2,500 times throughout his career.
Constantly staying connected on social media appears to have negative mental health consequences for many adults and children. In a recent study published in the journal Psychology of Popular Media Culture, researchers found that people who post a large number of selfies tend to have higher levels of certain narcissistic traits and more fragile self-esteem. They also describe a condition called “phantom pocket vibration syndrome,” in which you feel your phone vibrating even when it isn’t. The researchers say that it’s worth examining how you use social media. If you feel the need for instant gratification or peer pressure, if you are trying to imitate someone, or you are focused on whether what you post is liked or not, you could lose sight of what really are the most important things in life.
Through the stories of a dozen athletes whose injuries and recovery advanced the field (including Joan Benoit, Michael Jordan, Brandi Chastain, and Tommy John), Dr. Geier explains how sports medicine makes sports safer for the pros, amateurs, student-athletes, and weekend warriors alike.
