There is no question that social media is affecting teenagers everyday both positively and negatively.

According to SEO DESIGN CHICAGO, “Social media has taken the internet by storm. Just 15 years ago, only five percent of teens used social media. Today, over 70% of teens use social media.”

“The social component is very alluring. It’s very attractive. It’s brilliant in keeping us hooked because we’re curious creatures, right,” school counselor Adriana Munoz said. “We want to see what everyone’s doing. We want to see what people are wearing and what they look like. I think that keeping in touch with people is the most alluring part.”

Teenagers can have bad mental health due to social media, and one main reason is because they begin to compare themselves to others. Sophomore Olivia Baumerger mentioned that she realizes she compares herself to those she sees on social media.

“[On social media,] people see a fake image. Let’s say a girl [thinks] should look like this or that. And so then they obviously become more insecure because they’re like, ‘Oh, maybe I don’t have a perfect nose’ or ‘Oh, my hair’s not pretty,’ for example,” Baumerger said. “They see a fake image and then they start getting insecure and feeling bad about themselves, which can also bring you bad mental health. And I think being on social media like a lot of time especially can bring you that.”

However, social media can also be a positive thing because you’re able to stay connected with people like family and friends.

“There are positive things like staying connected with people that may be with your family and friends that are not with you,” Spanish teacher Carlos Garces said. “But if you spend too much time on social media you could become addicted.”