Social Media vs. Real Life: Protecting Your Wellbeing in a Filtered World

As summer stretches on, many of us find ourselves spending more time on social media, watching holiday videos, seeing friends’ beach outings, garden parties, or perfectly plated summer meals. It can be a vibrant time of year online, but also one where comparison quietly creeps in.

It’s easy to start questioning whether we’re making the most of the season or doing enough at all. But here’s something to hold onto: what we see on social media is never the full picture. Behind every sun-drenched post is real life, complete with its own stresses, setbacks, and quiet moments that never make it online.

The Pressure of Perfection

Social media platforms are designed to showcase the best bits: the wins, the celebrations, the filtered smiles. But when we scroll through these highlights without context, we begin comparing our full, unedited lives to someone else’s carefully chosen moments. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy, stress, or the sense that everyone else is somehow “ahead.”

And during the summer months, that pressure can feel amplified. We may feel we’re supposed to be happier, more social, more productive or that we’re missing out if our reality doesn’t match the feeds we see.

As we move toward September, with routines returning and work picking up again, this is a good moment to pause and ask: Is my online world supporting my wellbeing or quietly undermining it?

Tips for Finding Balance

If you’ve noticed that scrolling is leaving you more drained than inspired, here are five ways to protect your wellbeing both online and off:

1. Take Meaningful Breaks
   Step away from social media when it starts to feel overwhelming. A few hours, a day, or even a weekend away can help clear your head and reset your perspective.
2. Curate Your Feed
   Surround yourself with content that feels real and encouraging. Mute or unfollow accounts that trigger comparison or make you question your worth.
3. Be Present in the Moment
   Instead of focusing on capturing the perfect photo, try to fully experience the moment—whether that’s a quiet walk, a family meal, or time with friends.
4. Talk, Don’t Scroll
   If something is bothering you, reach out to someone you trust. Conversations in real life are far more grounding than likes or emojis ever could be.
5. Remember: Nobody Has It All Together
   Behind every post is a human being with challenges, doubts, and days that don’t go to plan. Perfection online is an illusion, not a goal.