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Dr Becky Howie demonstrates how to navigate the health risks and rewards of social media

Last month, I mentioned social media in an article about stress and stress management, and I’d like to delve deeper into this topic this month. You might be curious why a doctor is discussing social media in a health column. I now consider social media a potential ‘risky health behaviour’ that deserves thoughtful consideration during health assessments. Over the past few years, I’ve seen social media influence nearly every patient consultation – from causing health anxiety triggered by online content to inspiring positive change through science-based pages that motivate patients to finally take care of long-ignored health issues. It’s clear to me that social media has both benefits and risks for our wellbeing. So, let’s take some time to explore this fascinating phenomenon – which, frankly, isn’t going anywhere.