There are always two sides to a story. Or in this case, to research. Contrary to this study which suggests that the internet makes us happier, other researchers say turning to our smartphones when we’re feeling down may actually make us feel worse.
This new report says that using Twitter and Facebook will only make things worse as they replace genuine human contact with something ‘synthetic’, researchers claim.
Instead, those who are feeling low should talk to someone face to face, said the university study into modern communications.
While there is nothing wrong in using a phone to pass away the time, the problems come when using a device to ‘alleviate feelings of sadness or depression by seeking out others’, the study in journal Computers in Human Behaviour said.
The report, by Michigan State University researcher Prabu David, said: ‘Depressed people who turn to their smartphones for relief may only be making things worse.’
He added: ‘If you have a chance to see someone face to face, take it. Life is short.’ – Daily Mail