Psychological Impact of Social Media

 

                              

  

    Social media has become an essential part of our daily lives in an age domain by technology and connection. Social media platforms provide one-of-a-kind opportunities for communication, from sharing happy moments to staying up-to-date on global events . The rise of social media, on the other hand, has raised concerns about its potential on mental health. As we navigate the digital landscape, we must understand both the positive and negative effect that social media can have on our health.

The Positive Aspect Social support and Connection:

    Social media has changed the way we communicate with others, breaking down geographical barriers and allowing us to stay in touch with friends, family, and acquaintances. Sharing personal experiences and stories can increase empathy. Individuals who might have felt alone in their struggles have found comfort and encouragement in online communities dedicated to mental health advocacy, recovery and awareness.

The Negative Aspect: Comparisons and Vulnerabilities: 

    While social media has the potential to encourage positive connections it also introduces challenges that can have an impact on our mental health. One of the most serious issues is the culture of comparison that can develop due to constant exposure to depictions of people’s live can lead to unrealistic expectations as well as feelings of lack of skill when we compare our lives to highlighted lives of others, which might cause anxiety, low self-esteem and even depression. Furthermore 'the fear of missing OTT' can strengthen feelings of exclusion and loneliness. Seeing others have exciting experiences can make people feel left out or excluded from the fun deepening feelings of isolation.,

    The activity of social media validation via likes, comments, and shares can have a significant impact on self-esteem. The dopamine ( a chemical released in your brain that makes you feel good) that comes with positive online feedback can be addictive, leading people to seek external validation. The absence of social approval, on the other hand, can lead to feelings of rejection.

Mindful Consumption and Digital Detox:

    Recognizing the opportunity to avoid the pitfalls of excessive social media use, many experts recommend regular  “ Digital detoxes' ' Individuals can regain perspective, focus on in person interactions, and reduce feelings of comparison and self-doubt breaks from social media. Mindful social media consumption entails being aware of how certain content makes us feel. Unfollow or mute accounts that frequently draw out negative emotions or self-comparisons. Fill your social media feed with content that makes you feel motivated, educated, inspired.

     Moderation and self-awareness are essential in the complex relationship between social media and mental health. Social media can be an effective tool for connecting, supporting and advising but it also necessitates careful consideration of its potential negative consequences. We can reap the benefits of social media by encouraging a healthy digital lifestyle while protecting our mental and emotional well- being. Remember the important connection we have is with ourselves and maintaining that connection is critical in today’s digital age.

- Prapti Sharma

- Prapti Sharma

                                                               

Creative students participated in VidhuShe debate competition

Manabi Adhikari and Rojee Pachabhaiya 

June 11, Kirtipur

     8 students of 'Creative Academy' participated in a debate competition organized by DNN(Debate Network Nepal) and KUSOM(Kathmandu University School Of Management) debate club at KUSOM on May 26-29.VidhuShe debate competition is organized for students interested in debate  belonging to any school. This competition was supported by the Shequal Foundation. According to the debate mentor of Creative Academy, Piyush Murarka, the competition is organized every year only for women and gender minorities.

    According to the organizer there were nearly 90 participants, comprising 24 teams, 48 debaters and around 18 adjudicators in the competition. Republica Gautam, Slesha Shiwakoti, Jessica Shrestha, Shreeya Chand, Jenisha Shah, Bidisha Basnet, Ansu Maharjan and Salin Adhikari participated from Creative Academy.There were two students in each team.By calculating from every team from Creative Academy,they held first position four times and second position four times. Republica Gautam and Slesha Shiwakoti for first and second two times . Jessica Shrestha and Shreeya Chand for the first and second time . Jenisha Shah and Bidisha Basnet got first position once and Ansu Maharjan and Salin Adhikari got second position once.

    'It is very good that they organize this tournament every year' stated a participant. The tournament ended on May 29 and Team Anything works (Jeni Gurung and Shreya Singh) were announced as the winners. From the novice category ,team MJ24C (Avilasha Adhikari and Sangya Lamichhane) claimed top honors .Republica Gautam along with other 2 students won the joint award for ‘Movie Best Speaker’ representing our school in the competition.

Thriving on the Debate Stage: A Memorable Experience of Triumph and Growth

 

 

    Recently, I had the privilege of participating in a thrilling debate competition organized by Creative Academy in collaboration with Debate Network Nepal (DNN) on May 30, 2023. The event unfolded in the highly esteemed World Scholar's Debate Championship format, with teams of three members engaging in intense intellectual battles. The mixture of nerves and excitement in the air was evident, as we prepared to showcase our skills and fight for victory. The competition was centered around a clash between the "Government Side" and the "Opposition Side." As my team and I took our places, the weight of responsibility settled on our shoulders, driving us to deliver our most compelling arguments.

    As the competition commenced, the moderator's voice filled the room, announcing the motion for the first round. My heart pounded with nervous excitement as I prepared to define my team's stance. Each time we spoke, the spotlight was on us, and we were determined to shine the brightest with strong and persuasive arguments. During the breaks between rounds, we took the opportunity to regroup and improve our strategies. I took a deep sigh of relief during these short pauses due to the nerve-wracking competition. Actually, the preparation time was the most nerve-wracking part. I felt as though I didn’t have much to say. But, as soon as I started speaking, I felt as confident as ever. The atmosphere in the debate room was filled with intellectual intensity as we exchanged ideas and countered our opponents' points. It was challenging and I was nervous to my core.

 

    Round after round, we passionately presented our arguments and defended our positions. Despite the pressure, we remained enthusiastic and confident. Our efforts were rewarded as we won all three rounds, which filled us with immense pride and happiness. I became more and more hopeful with every victory. Upon reaching the finals, the competition intensified, and we found ourselves engaged in a tough battle with the opposing team. Our final round was over. We were nervously waiting for the results to be announced. I was very hopeful that we’d win. But I can never be too sure, can I? The whole wait felt extremely long. Unfortunately, to add on to that, we were informed that the results would be announced the next day due to some unavoidable circumstances.

 

    The result was finally being announced. I could feel my heart beating faster with every passing second. When the final result was announced, declaring us the winners of the competition, I felt an overwhelming sense of pride. Reflecting on our journey, I am grateful and proud of our team. I embraced my nervousness and just did my best throughout the tournament. Being awarded as the ‘Best Speaker’ of the tournament made my experience even more thrilling. The tournament was a great learning experience and the time and dedication I spent on it was worth it. This debate competition provided us with an opportunity to showcase our skills, develop critical thinking abilities, and public speaking skills. 

    I am incredibly proud of my team's determination and collective effort to excel. This experience has given me newfound confidence and the belief that I can face and overcome challenges. This experience has left a lasting impact on our academic journey, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have participated in this event. 

   - Republica Gautam

Nonviolent Communication Training Sessions Scheduled for Teachers and CRs/DERs

By Slesha Shiwakoti

July 16, 2023

In an effort to promote peaceful and effective communication within the school, a series of Nonviolent Communication (NVC) training sessions have been conducted for teachers, as well as Class Representatives (CRs) and Directly Elected Representatives(DERs). According to Khagendra Gautam, one of the founders of the school, the training sessions aim to equip the leaders with the necessary skills to resolve conflicts and foster harmonious relationships in their respective roles.

The first set of NVC training sessions was scheduled exclusively for teachers and had taken place on Jestha 27 and 28. The sessions were held at the school and focused on equipping teachers with effective strategies for implementing nonviolent communication techniques in their classrooms. The Level Incharge of the school, Parshuram Khanal believes that the training will help teachers build stronger connections with their students, resolve conflicts peacefully, and create a more positive learning environment. 

    Following the success of the initial sessions for teachers, a second round of training commenced on Jestha 28. This time, the focus was shifted to Class Representatives (CRs) and Directly Elected Representatives (DERs). These individuals play a vital role in student welfare and act as liaisons between students and faculty members. The NVC training sessions for CRs and DERs will span seven days, starting from July 24 (Asadh 24) and concluding on August 1 (Shrawan 1).

    According to Khagendra Gautam, the extended duration of the training for CRs and DERs reflects the importance placed on developing their communication skills in resolving student grievances and fostering a supportive environment within academic departments. Participants will engage in a variety of interactive workshops, role-plays, and case studies to better understand the principles and application of nonviolent communication.

    The training sessions were and will be facilitated by experienced communication expert Sri Ram Timilsina, who has an extensive background in NVC and conflict resolution. He assures us that he will guide participants through various scenarios and provide them with practical tools and techniques to enhance their communication skills.

    The initiative to provide NVC training to teachers, CRs, and DERs is part of a larger effort to promote peaceful dialogue and conflict resolution within the school. By equipping educators and key student representatives with these essential skills, the hope is to create a more empathetic and understanding environment where students can thrive academically and emotionally.

    The Prime Minister of the Creative Model State, Ansu Maharjan, shared her experience as “ Participating in nonviolent communication training has been transformative, equipping me with valuable tools to enhance my communication skills and cultivate empathy. Through self-awareness and active listening, I've gained confidence in connecting with others and resolving conflicts with understanding.”    

    As the world evolves, the need for effective communication becomes increasingly important. By investing in nonviolent communication training, schools and universities are taking a proactive step towards creating a culture of empathy and respect within their educational communities.