Resources to protect your mental health online on Safer Internet Day

Feb 7, 2023

Feb. 7 marks Safer Internet Day, which provides an opportunity for Canadian Mental Health Association branches to remind their communities of strategies for using the internet, social media and related technologies that can protect or even benefit your mental health.

One of the biggest concerns regarding mental health and the online environment is excessive use of social media. While social media use can help decrease feelings of isolation and loneliness, it can also affect mood, motivation and concentration. Research shows that constantly checking social media sites can increase feelings of inadequacy and depression, as well as anxiety around the fear of missing out.

To help, CMHA Ontario’s BounceBack program has a resource with practical tips on how to engage in social media mindfully. The tip sheet aims to help everyone reap the benefits of social media without being impacted by the risks. For more information, download the resource from the CMHA Ontario website.

Every February on Safer Internet Day, organizations come together to help make the online world safer, especially for young people. From cyberbullying to child exploitation, it’s important to know the risks to internet and technology use for youth, and how to limit those risks. For more online safety resources, visit www.saferinternetday.org/in-your-country/canada.