Research indicates that Fitness Influencers have a negative impact on Mental Health

A new study has found that young adults who follow health and fitness influencers on Instagram may be physically healthier, but they are also more likely to experience depression and anxiety. The study, published in the Journal of Psychosocial Research on Cyberspace, surveyed 1,022 individuals aged 18 to 25 from the U.S., the U.K., and New Zealand.

According to the study, followers of health influencers on Instagram engage in more vigorous exercise and consume more fruits and vegetables compared to non-followers. However, they also reported higher levels of distress, including depression, anxiety, and negative mood. This raises the question of whether the pursuit of physical health through social media comes at the cost of mental well-being.

The study highlights the influence of social media platforms like Instagram in promoting fitness and wellness trends. Fitness influencers like Kayla Itsines and Mari Llewellyn have gained popularity on the platform, attracting a predominantly female audience with higher socioeconomic status and education levels.

Interestingly, the study found that followers who engaged in more vigorous physical activity were associated with higher levels of distress, especially among those following food or diet-related health influencers. While following health influencers can have positive effects like motivating healthier choices, it can also lead to negative outcomes such as compulsive exercise or unhealthy eating habits.

Overall, the study suggests that while following health influencers may lead to healthier behaviors, it may also contribute to higher levels of distress and lower well-being. As social media continues to play a significant role in shaping health and wellness trends, finding a balance between inspiration and mental health is crucial for young adults seeking to improve their overall well-being.