Counsels on Lifestyle

Counsel #13 — Mind Over Media

Picture: Counsel #13 — Mind Over Media CLi 23.1

Connecting with loved ones online can seem like a convenient benefit for those separated by distance. However, spending at least three hours daily on social media can heighten symptoms of depression and anxiety. Users often experience FOMO (fear of missing out) and develop a negative self-image from comparing themselves to unrealistic standards portrayed online. CLi 23.2

While it may seem unlikely that a simple app could influence someone so deeply, social media’s impact is powerful enough to lead once-confident individuals to feel hopeless. God designed us with dopamine—a “feel-good” brain chemical intended to reward positive behaviors. However, Satan exploits this, causing dopamine to flood our brains when we engage with social media. Each scroll releases more dopamine, driving us back repeatedly until it becomes addictive — destroying our mental health. The mind is a spiritual battleground, with two forces competing for control. Who will you let win?^[20] CLi 23.3

“Jesus replied, “Love the Lord you God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” Matthew 22:37 NIV CLi 23.4

“The brain nerves which communicate with the entire system are the only medium through which Heaven can communicate with man and affect his inmost life. What disturbs the circulation of the electric currents in the nervous system lessens the strength of the vital powers…” Ellen White in My Life Today, p. 148 CLi 23.5

Reflect: Consider how long you stay on social media each day. After you log off, do you feel confident and self-assured or inadequate and envious? CLi 23.6