A study conducted by German researchers suggests that reducing time spent on social media platforms like TikTok and Facebook can lead to improved mental health, job satisfaction, and commitment among employees. This finding emphasizes the importance of limiting social media usage for enhancing overall well-being in the workplace.

Social media attributed to FOMO

Social media platforms are associated with both mood enhancements and detrimental effects on mental health. For instance the Fear of Missing Out (FOMO), frequently linked to social media use, can result in addictive behaviors with lasting negative consequences.

The study conducted by Ruhr University Bochum examined the impact of reducing social media usage on individuals who spent around 35 minutes every day on non-work-related social media. Researchers evaluated 166 participants who were grouped into two with one group continuing their normal social media habits, while another group cut social media usage by 30 minutes for a week. Subjects completed questionnaires assessing factors such as workload, mental health, job satisfaction and FOMO before, during, and after the experiment.

According to Julia Brailovskaia, an associate professor at Ruhr University Bochum, after just a brief period of reducing social media usage by 30 minutes per day, the group showed significant improvements in mental health and job satisfaction. Participants in this group reported feeling less overwhelmed and more dedicated to their work compared to the control group.

Minimizing social media usage improves concentration

Reducing social media usage led to decreased FOMO, lasting positive effects for at least a week post-experiment. Researchers suggest that by minimizing social media distractions, participants gained focus, reduced work burden, and improved real-life interactions, countering feelings of alienation. Persistent benefits highlight the impact of limiting social media on concentration and overall well-being.

Frequent interruptions from tasks for social media use hinder focus and productivity, leading to poorer results, according to Brailovskaia. The study, consistent with prior research by the same group, suggests a slight reduction in daily social media use can alleviate depressive symptoms and improve mental health.

Brailovskaia recommends integrating reduced social media time into business coaching, psychotherapeutic interventions, and mental health programs for enhanced well-being.