We’ve all been there–the feeling of panic when we lose a “198-day streak”. Snapchat streaks have caused serious issues for people. Snapchat itself has caused fights and the outbreak of emotions. I’m not above this–I can recall numerous moments of anger when I’ve lost a streak.
However, I hope the phenomenon of social media causing negative and psychological effects and dependency comes to an end, or at least declines in intensity. With so much going on in the global and political climate, I feel that I have been more consumed with my social media presence then I should be.
Snapchat as an app is a unique way to keep in contact with people, as well as share moments through an image. Being able to see where our friends and family are around the world is a cool and unique benefit that we enjoy in today’s social media environment. The problem comes with the everyday use of snapchat, especially with the pressure to keep streaks going.
Keeping up with friends and being able to see their face is entertaining, but losing a streak due to a friend breaking their phone or going on vacation is not something to mourn. Life is fast, and I’ve found the times I’m not snapchatting are the times I’m having the most fun living my life. Holding grudges against someone based on their social media use is not good for the friendship.
While Snapchat has brought me closer to my friends as I’ve gone through college, I think the original stress-free intentions of the app should be remembered. Apps such as Instagram, Twitter, and Snapchat were made to connect people and visually share our fondest moments and memories. They were meant to be fun.
If you’re still reading, send your best friend a snapchat saying you appreciate them. Let’s start to use social media as a source of happiness and relief, rather than as a contest.
