Is TikTok Unhealthy and Toxic?

Hey everyone!

I chanced upon this article and I wanted to hear more about your thoughts!
Read: Adults here at risk of body image anxiety more likely to spend 3 hours or more daily on TikTok, Instagram

The app is full of entertaining videos, but it’s also designed to keep us scrolling for hours. Studies show that apps like TikTok can impact attention span and even make people feel more anxious or dissatisfied with their own lives, especially since social media tends to show only the “highlights” of other people’s lives.

For young people, this can be really tough. TikTok’s algorithm quickly learns what gets attention, and before you know it, users are seeing endless videos about appearance, “perfect” lifestyles, or even extreme diets and risky challenges. This constant comparison can mess with self-esteem and create unrealistic expectations. Plus, the pressure to gain likes and views can lead some users to post things they might not feel comfortable with in real life, just to stay relevant.

Do you think TikTok is a positive influence, or do you think it does more harm than good for younger users? Would love to hear your thoughts!

Hey everyone!

TikTok is fun, right? But it can also impact our mental health in ways we might not realize. Spending hours scrolling through videos can lead to stress, sleep problems, and unrealistic comparisons. TikTok’s algorithm is designed to keep us watching, which can quickly turn minutes into hours – and that endless scrolling can affect our mood and energy levels without us even noticing! :face_with_peeking_eye:

Some red flags :triangular_flag_on_post: that TikTok might be impacting you include feeling anxious or “off” after using the app, losing track of time, or comparing yourself to others. If you find yourself constantly thinking about trends, feeling pressured to post, or needing validation through likes and views, it might be worth reflecting on your usage.

Have you noticed any of these signs? How do you balance using TikTok with other parts of your life? Share your thoughts!