Instagram Addiction: Get Help for Compulsive Social Media Use
Clinical Review by:
Published:
Aug 23, 2024
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10:58 a.m.
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Instagram is synonymous with social media like Serena Williams is to tennis. Many can't think of one without the other coming to mind. Instagram had humble beginnings in 2010 when it started out as an app called Burbn. Once the founder of Burbn realized that communication through sharing photos was on the rise, the concept for Instagram came together.
On October 6, 2010, Instagram officially launched, and within 6 months had more than 3 million users. Originally Instagram was exclusive to apple users but in 2012 the app launched for Android users as well. This upgrade shot Instagram to 50 million users almost overnight.
Instagram has only continued to grow in popularity over the past 10 years and now has even more competitive market features, such as Instagram stories, Reels and ways to monetize social media for influencers and businesses alike. But the app’s growth has also led to issues, including social bullying and unhealthy obsessions with the platform. Compulsive social media usage has become a growing problem, and Instagram is often part of it.
Can you actually get addicted to Instagram?
Social media addiction has gained attention in recent years due to the increase of usage among people of all ages. Problematic Social Media Use (PSMU) speaks to an inability to regulate social media use and the negative consequences of overuse.
While there is no official diagnosis at this time in the DSM-5 that speaks to social media addiction specifically, it is often viewed as a subcategory of technology-related compulsive behaviors. It has not been recognized as a mental health diagnosis, but many professionals can agree that the nature of social media is addictive and causes real behavioral problems for many users.
An interview from Stamford Medicine featured author Anna Lembke speaking about the addictive nature of social media. Lemke explains that humans are wired to seek out connections to others and that social media can provide a version of those feelings that our brains seek.
There is a definite risk of becoming addicted to Instagram if other factors influencing social media consumption are present. Usage of Instagram and other social media apps can become an issue when it interferes with everyday life. It is also a concern if Instagram becomes someone's only way to connect to the outside world or experience social fulfillment. When the reward system in the brain continues to look for hits of dopamine that is fueled by Instagram use, it can reach the point of being addictive.
What makes Instagram so addictive?
Instagram uses a habit loop model that is designed to get your attention and cue you to go onto the app. Instagram then encourages continued usage through live feeds and scrolling content to increase engagement. Occasionally there is a post from someone you know or a funny meme that is enjoyable, triggering the reward system of the brain and releases dopamine. This cycle can continue multiple times a day with a cue, engagement and reward system.
Instagram also has an endless scrolling model. No matter how long you scroll through Instagram feeds, content will never run out. The “Explore” page of Instagram also allows people to scroll through new content they don’t get on their regular feed. This can lead to more variable rewards that give boosts of dopamine, especially as users interact with posts and are then subsequently fed similar content.
Instagram also introduced Reels, which imitates the video feed of TikTok, making video content much more prevalent on Instagram feeds. One of the most impactful parts of Instagram (and TikTok) is the algorithm they use to drive specific content based on personal interest to someone's feed. By providing specialized content to individuals, the material is more likely to engage the reward system of the brain and continue to crave those same highs.
Signs of Instagram addiction & compulsive social media usage
Social media is so ingrained in our everyday lives that it can be difficult to know if your relationship with Instagram is healthy or not. There are signs that may indicate if social media use is compulsive and addictive or not.
Signs of social Instagram addiction may include:
Using Instagram for a longer or more frequent period than intended
Using Instagram instead of engaging in the outside world
Prioritizing Instagram scrolling over other responsibilities
Usage negatively impacts your health (ex: lack of sleep or food or poor hygienic habits)
Instagram interactions have become more important than in-person connections
Feeling a need to check Instagram while driving or in other situations that require full attention
Feelings of anxiety or stress when not using Instagram
Your mood being contingent on social media interactions
Using Instagram to avoid or counter negative feelings
Treatment options for Instagram & social media addiction
Treatment for Instagram and social media addiction have become more common with its increased effect on mental health. Treatment for compulsive social media use may take place in inpatient or outpatient facilities. Individual, group, family and couples counseling may also tackle social media addiction, depending on the individual impact.
Birches Health offers care from the comfort of home for those suffering from compulsive social media use. Birches’ teletherapy options are from licensed clinicians who have vast experience helping individuals dealing with social media addiction, creating custom care plans for every individual. If you may be struggling with Instagram addiction or compulsive social media use, reach out to the team at Birches for a free consultation. You can also refer a friend or loved one confidentially today.
