New Year, New Growth: Nurturing a Positive Mindset

For many people, social media is a constant presence in their daily routines. It offers opportunities for connection and discovery, but it also brings unique challenges—particularly when it comes to self-esteem. Sara Costello, LCSW , a licensed clinical social worker at Life InSight in Cresskill, NJ, has extensive experience working with young people and their families to address the impacts of social media. She offers insights into how these platforms shape self-perception and strategies to help teens and young adults navigate them more healthily. The Echo Chamber Effect Social media can affect self-esteem by creating an "echo chamber" through its algorithms. These algorithms monitor what people engage with and then keep showing them more of the same type of content. It might feel tailored to you, but it often amplifies certain feelings or thoughts—sometimes for the better, but often for the worse. "Algorithms can sometimes reinforce insecurities by showing content that aligns with an individual's negative self-image," explains Sara Costello. "For instance, a teen who already feels self-conscious about their body might start seeing more posts about unrealistic beauty standards, which can make them feel even worse." Parents can help their children by teaching them to think more critically about what they see online and encouraging them to focus on building real-world relationships that foster confidence and a healthy sense of self-worth. The Comparison Trap For many young people, scrolling through social media often means comparing themselves to others. This comparison can occur in two ways: Upward Comparison: When someone compares themselves to influencers or peers they aspire to be like. While this can sometimes be motivating, it often leads to feelings of inadequacy. Downward Comparison: When someone compares themselves to others they perceive as "less successful" or "less fortunate." This might offer temporary relief but can foster a judgmental mindset. "Teens are especially vulnerable to comparison because they're still figuring out who they are," Sara explains. "When their self-worth becomes tied to likes, comments, or the curated lives of others, it can lead to anxiety, depression, and a distorted sense of self." Helping Teens and Young Adults Navigate Social Media Sara emphasizes that while social media can negatively impact self-esteem, it doesn't have to. Parents can help their children develop healthier relationships with these platforms through mindful strategies and open communication. "Research has shown that heavy social media use can lead to increased rates of anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem," Sara notes. Here are some practical tips: Set Time Limits Together: Work with your teen to establish reasonable screen time boundaries. Encourage Positive Content: Suggest following accounts that promote kindness, education, or inspiration. Foster Real-Life Connections: Help your teen prioritize in-person relationships with supportive friends and family. Model Healthy Behavior: Show your teen how to use social media responsibly by practicing it yourself. "How we mitigate the negative impacts are to limit the exposure to social media, focus on the real connections in our lives, be critical of content we are consuming, and promote positive social media use," Sara advises. Starting the Conversation Talking to your teen about social media can be challenging, but it’s an important way to understand its effects. Sara suggests that parents approach these conversations with an open mind and genuine curiosity instead of jumping to conclusions or judgment. "Start by asking open-ended questions to understand how your child interacts with social media," she says. "For example, ask, 'What do you like about social media?' or 'How do certain posts make you feel?' This creates an opportunity for meaningful dialogue without making them feel defensive." It’s equally important to acknowledge the positive aspects of social media, like learning new skills or staying connected with friends, while working together to set healthy boundaries. Sara suggests involving teens in decisions about screen time and social media use to foster trust and mutual respect. Life InSight: Supporting Families in the Digital Age At Life InSight in Cresskill, NJ, the team understands families' unique challenges in today's digital landscape. With years of experience supporting children, teens, and parents, Sara Costello and her colleagues offer tailored approaches to help young people build self-esteem, manage anxiety, and navigate the pressures of social media. "Social media is here to stay, but that doesn't mean we're powerless against its negative effects," Sara says. "By creating open communication and a supportive environment, families can help their children develop the tools they need to thrive online and offline." If your child or teen is struggling with self-esteem, anxiety, or the pressures of social media, Life InSight is here to help . Their compassionate, expert team offers personalized services designed to support families through every step of the journey.

Fostering Family Harmony: Reducing Tension and Building Understanding in the New Year The start of a new year brings a sense of renewal and possibility, making it an ideal time for families to reflect on their relationships and set intentions for the future. It’s a chance to identify what’s working well, address challenges, and create a more harmonious home environment. At LifeInsight in Cresskill, NJ, we’re dedicated to helping families strengthen their connections and improve their well-being. A Fresh Start for Families The New Year offers an opportunity for families to prioritize their relationships. Whether it’s carving out time for meaningful conversations, improving communication, or tackling unresolved conflicts, small, intentional changes can make a big difference. For some, seeking outside support through therapy can be a powerful step toward fostering healthier dynamics and building stronger bonds. Common Challenges Families Face Family life can be both rewarding and challenging. Miscommunication, unmet expectations, or unresolved conflicts are common sources of tension. External stressors, like work demands, school responsibilities, or financial pressures, often add to the strain. Recognizing these challenges is the first step toward finding effective solutions and creating a more peaceful home environment. Simple Ways to Reduce Tension Creating a harmonious family environment doesn’t require a complete overhaul—sometimes small adjustments can have the biggest impact. Here are a few strategies that can help: Communicate Openly: Encourage every family member to share their thoughts and feelings in a supportive and nonjudgmental setting. Listen Actively: Show respect by genuinely listening to one another without interrupting. Set Boundaries: Define clear expectations and respect personal space to reduce misunderstandings. Plan Family Check-Ins: Regularly come together to discuss successes, challenges, and goals as a family. For those navigating ongoing challenges, family and parent therapy provides a neutral and supportive space to explore deeper issues and develop practical solutions. How Therapy Supports Families Family and parent therapy focuses on improving communication, resolving conflicts, and fostering understanding. It’s particularly helpful during times of change or stress, such as a major life transition or a shift in household dynamics. Family and parent therapy offers tools to navigate these moments and helps families work together to overcome challenges. At LifeInsight, we also offer individualized care and therapy, which focuses on equipping parents with strategies to better connect with and support their children. Whether it’s addressing behavioral issues, navigating adolescence, or improving communication, parent therapy can empower families to create a stronger foundation for growth. A Closer Look at Parent Therapy Parent therapy at LifeInsight is designed to help caregivers handle the complexities of raising children in today’s fast-paced world. For example, a parent managing a teenager’s academic pressures or guiding a younger child through emotional challenges can benefit from practical strategies tailored to their situation. These tools not only help parents feel more confident in their roles but also foster trust and understanding within the family. Start the New Year with Intention This New Year, consider how your family can grow closer and build stronger connections. At LifeInsight we’re here to guide you through the journey. Whether you’re exploring therapy for the first time or looking to strengthen your family’s relationships, we’re here to help. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your family’s well-being and start the year on a positive note.