Why is it so much harder to relax?
In today’s days digital age, it is increasingly difficult to simply relax. Scrolling on social media can provide momentary bursts of the illusion of peace and security. We are able to view hundreds of videos of families, pets, events, nights out, rescue missions, and other uplifting content. We are also bombarded with dance videos, luxury vacation clips, attractive faces, and given millions of reasons to feel insecure. In this article we discuss current mental health trends and provide one simple life change that can promote happiness.
We are in a Mental Health Crisis
Recent statistics from multiple sources, consolidated by the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences indicate that depression rates in the United States are at an all-time high. In 2023, 29% of U.S. residents reported experiencing depression at some point in their lives; and 18% reported currently experiencing depression, marking a significant increase from previous years. These statistics are particularly concerning for adolescents and young adults, with 17% of those aged 12 to 17 and over 17% of those aged 18 to 25 experiencing major depression.
Long-term Impacts of Covid-19
The increase of depression has been linked to various factors, including the long-term impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic; which has worsened mental health issues across different demographic groups. The isolation of quarantine is linked to limited social development, meaning that many people feel developmentally delayed.
Increased Social Media Usage
Simultaneously, studies show a direct correlation between the increased usage of social media with increased depression rates. Social media platforms, while offering a means of connection, can also contribute to feelings of inadequacy and social isolation, particularly among younger users. A study by Technology, Mind and Behavior, found that limiting social media use to 30 minutes per day can significantly reduce levels of anxiety, depression, and loneliness. This finding aligns with broader concerns about the mental health impacts of extensive social media use.
Overall, the rise in depression rates in the U.S. coincides with increasing social media usage, suggesting a complex relationship between these trends. Addressing this mental health crisis requires comprehensive strategies that include both mental health support and a critical examination of social media’s role in shaping public health outcomes. While this relationship is difficult to understand and combat, there are additional ways to uplift your mood and feel happier within just one week.
One Simple Change to Promote Happiness
One simple change we can make to promote happiness in our lives is through intentional living space design. Our surroundings can impact our psyche, from the tidy or messiness, to the colors we most often see. Through intentional color psychology, POP Pillow Design offers collections of pillowcases with colors and patterns that intensify positive emotions.
Our Pastel Collection (Coming soon!) offers soft hues promoting relaxation and comfort. Compared to our Vibes Collection (Coming soon!) offers bright, exciting colors that promote creativity and passion, perfect for art studios and office spaces.
POP Pillow Design intentionally crafts to evoke a positive emotion. Additionally, we partner with environmentally-conscious organizations so that every time you see one of our pillowcases, you not only see yourself and your own individuality, but a cleaner future through intentional sustainable purchase choices. By changing just one, two, or three pillow cases, you could make a noticeable difference to your life, and the lives of your families, or colleagues.
Check out our store for more intentional design inspiration.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general purposes only. Consult a professional for personalized advice related to your specific needs.