In the early 2000s, a rapid rise in technology led to new innovations. In 2007 the first iPhone was released, further normalizing social platforms such as Facebook which jumpstarted a rapid increase in social media platforms being created where more people could connect. This has brought many positive outcomes for society and even the economy, allowing for further advertisement, opportunities in creating an online status to profit from, and a massive expansion in business communications. Although these innovations have proven to provide many benefits, it also has their downsides.

Due to the social nature of social media, people have begun to compete in a sense. Many people create fake personas and post only their leisure activities and luxurious items in order to seem much more successful than they are. This causes many people to view this false facade and envy their status and wealth. Another issue is when people see events that they were not invited to and feel left out. This causes unwanted and avoidable feelings of loneliness, which may develop or worsen depression.

Due to this phenomenon, social media companies have provided screen time regulation on their applications and provided health and wellness warnings on their terms and conditions. Lowering and controlling your time on social media and spending time with peers instead of looking for approval online will greatly improve your mental health.