The Role of Counselors in Addressing Social Media Challenges for Holistic Wellbeing

Abdul Rashid Abdul Azizi; Rahma Mutia; Nilta Putri; Kukuh Dwi Sastra; Alvida Fatma Ritonga; Witra Oktaviani

Authors

Abdul Rashid Abdul Azizi Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia
Rahma Mutia Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia
Nilta Putri Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia
Kukuh Dwi Sastra Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia
Alvida Fatma Ritonga Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia
Witra Oktaviani Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia

Keywords:

Social media, Mental health, Cyberbullying, Digital dependency, Youth and young adults Counselors’ role, Emotional wellbeing, Psychological resilience

Abstract

In the current digital age, social media plays a major role in the daily lives of many people, especially teenagers and young adults. Despite its advantages like staying connected and accessing information easilyit also brings about serious problems such as cyberbullying, constant social comparison, anxiety, and overdependence on digital platforms. These challenges can have a major impact on an individual's overall wellbeing, both mentally and emotionally. Counselors are in a vital position to guide people through these digital struggles. By using appropriate assessment tools, offering psychoeducation, and applying targeted interventions, they can help clients manage the negative psychological effects that arise from social media use. This paper aims to discuss how counselors can effectively support individuals in dealing with social media-related stress. It will also highlight how counselors can encourage healthier habits and build psychological strength in a world that is always online and constantly connected.

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