Volume 38 Number 5 | October 2024

Carolyn Hosenfeld, DHSc, MLS(ASCP), SH(ASCP), ASCLS Today Volunteer Contributor

Carolyn HosenfeldBurnout is increasingly impacting our workforce, from new laboratory professionals to seasoned veterans. Many of us seek solace on our phones during our breaks or after work. I personally find myself guilty of mindlessly scrolling through the apps on my phone to unwind after a long day at the lab or a full day of teaching.

Social media platforms like TikTok, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, Threads, Snapchat, LinkedIn, and Reddit provide avenues to share thoughts, create engaging content, and to connect with friends and peers. After working a full shift (or perhaps a double) in an understaffed lab, finding a funny meme or watching fun, creative content can offer a temporary relief and serve as a distraction from the day’s stress.

However, it is important that we keep in mind that not all social media usage alleviates burnout; in some cases, it can exacerbate it. Social media use has been linked to signs and symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress (Karim et al., 2020). “Doomscrolling,” or spending time consuming negative news on social media or online, has been found to be detrimental to mental health (Cleveland Clinic, 2024). The following points recognize some of what I believe are the major contributing factors presented by social media that can worsen burnout and mental health, particularly for those working in the medical field.

“… it is important that we keep in mind that not all social media usage alleviates burnout; in some cases, it can exacerbate it.”

Stressful Content: Social media became a primary source of information for many during the COVID-19 pandemic. The information flooding these platforms often consisted of negative news, including high infection rates, deaths, and the strain on the healthcare system. Polarized political discourse, as well as national and/or global events like wars, natural disasters, and economic crises, also contribute to this stress. I’ve come across quite a few posts and memes relating to living through major historical events—some in jest, and some with full sincerity.

Misinformation: False information can spread like wildfire on social media. For example, misinformation about the COVID-19 virus, its treatments, and vaccines has led to significant frustration and anxiety within the medical community. In addition to handling widespread viral outbreaks (or other public health challenges), health care professionals also must handle addressing public misconceptions as well.

Sharing Negative Experiences in the Field: Although venting and sharing personal stories are important, doing so on social media can add to emotional burden. Sharing stories of loss and suffering could trigger strong reactions or feelings for some content consumers. Venting about work in particular may discourage newcomers and highlight some of the negative experiences within our field, potentially reducing job satisfaction and making professionals feel their efforts are futile. Sharing these thoughts and feelings with an appropriate professional can provide the same benefits for the person needing to vent, while also preventing a ripple effect of negativity on social media.

Comparison: Social media often showcases life’s highlights, leading to unrealistic comparisons. For example, seeing colleagues and friends post about professional achievements or personal milestones can create feelings of envy, inadequacy, or pressure to measure up—even if these posts don’t reflect the full reality of their experiences. This comparison can diminish self-esteem, leading to feelings of inadequacy and dissatisfaction with one’s own life and accomplishments.

Imposter Syndrome: Social media may worsen imposter syndrome, which is characterized by the fear of being exposed as a fraud, despite personal successes. Seeing others’ achievements can make individuals feel they do not belong in their professional or social circles. This can lead to downplaying personal successes and striving for perfectionism. The fear of not meeting these standards can cause heightened anxiety.

Overall Social Media Fatigue: Social media fatigue may be caused by information overload, emotional exhaustion from negative content, superficial interactions, and reduced productivity. The resulting social media fatigue may further intensify burnout and mental health issues.

Despite these challenges, social media can offer a number of benefits for laboratory professionals and others in the health care field. Some social media platforms foster community support through peer groups that can provide emotional support and/or practical advice. Mental health organizations and professionals often offer valuable self-help content and information on accessing therapists and counselors.

Certain platforms also present professional networking opportunities, potentially leading to job prospects, mentorship, and collaborations. Social media can function as an advocacy platform to highlight issues within our industry that contribute to burnout and poor mental health. Additionally, social media could also be used to share stories of success and spark optimism for our field’s future.

Engaging with Social Media Mindfully

In my experience, social media has become a social and cultural norm. The following are tactics I have used myself, or strategies used by my peers, to help minimize social media’s toll on mental health.

  • Setting boundaries and taking regular breaks from social media. This could include placing time limits on social media use and turning off non-essential notifications to reduce distractions and interruptions.
  • Following accounts that have positive, supportive, and/or educational content while avoiding or blocking negative accounts. Be sure to focus on meaningful interactions with others.
  • Engaging in mindfulness and relaxation techniques regularly.
  • Seeking professional support from a mental health professional or peer support group.
  • Practicing self-compassion and understanding that social media often presents a skewed view of reality. Recognizing this is important to maintain a healthy perspective. Be sure to also take time to celebrate your successes.
References

Dr. Carolyn Hosenfeld is Assistant Clinical Professor at Bowling Green State University in Bowling Green, Ohio.