Youngbloods Debate at State of Social ‘20: Is social media good for your mental health?

Youngbloods WA have been confirmed for this year’s State of Social conference, leading a debate on the effect of social media on mental health.

Two teams featuring bright young professionals from top marketing and communications agencies will go head to head, discussing, debating and dissecting the questions: Is social media good for your mental health? Is it time to rethink the way you think about social?

Uncertainty consumes social media through these uncertain times; COVID-19, Black Lives Matter, The Divided States of America, Brexit, the US-China trade war – it’s little wonder more and more people are struggling with stress, anxiety and depression.

Social media undoubtedly powers the 24/7 news cycle. Some argue it’s polarising us and fuelling online conflict, yet it also connects people at a time when social distancing and travel restrictions are forcing many apart.

“Social media has the power to bring society closer together and in the same hour pull us further apart,” said State of Social Founder, Meg Coffey. “There is an overwhelming amount of information, opinions and expectations that can be very negative for our mental health, but it can also be the best way to keep connected during extreme times of isolation like a lot of people are experiencing around the world today.”

Whatever way you look at it, the interplay between social media and mental health is real. And it’s set to become an increasingly important factor for digital and social marketers. On one side, three theorists will argue that social media has a negative effect on mental health. On the other, a trio of talent put the case for social media as a benefit to mental health.

Youngbloods State Co-Chair Member, Ali MacKellar from Initiative said, “We’re looking forward to cracking open a challenging subject and creating discussion around a topic that is very important. Mental health is an issue that touches the lives of many in the media and advertising industry and one that Youngblood’s is passionate about.”

Head to State of Social to secure your tickets.