The Comparison Epidemic

Teens compare themselves to others on social media in harmful manner

The Comparison Epidemic

It’s just a typical day — you get home from school, grab your phone and hop on the couch. But what’s the first app you open? Instagram? Twitter? Snapchat? 

Regardless of your pick, you’re bound to see pictures of fellow teens and celebrities and so-called ‘influencers’ flaunting their outfits, looks and body. 

Although entertaining, scrolling through these social media apps can be detrimental to one’s own self-esteem and self-image. One finds themself constantly comparing their own outfits, looks and body to those that they see on social media.

It gets dangerous when it affects one’s body image. The cycle of self-loathing and eating disorders can enter the picture — which sounds like a stretch, but it does happen. 

It sounds ironic — why would we, as teens, go on these apps that have people on them that make us insecure and question our own worth? It is entertainment. It is fun. It is something to do.

But the only simple solution to this is to not. To not go on these apps that allow for mass comparison and self-esteem issues.

Unfollow and cut ties with those that make you question your appearance. Limit your time on these apps that can be dangerous. 

Because in the end, all you have is your outfits, your looks and your body — and they are special and deserve to be loved in the most powerful way.