How Therapy Can Improve Communication in Relationships

We are living in the digital age, also known as the Information Age, and while this evolution was originally intended for good, it has also evolved in ways that undermine human connection and mental well-being. This shift began in the mid-20th century with the rise of computers, the internet, and digital communication. The primary goals were to enhance communication, increase access to information, boost productivity, and foster innovation and creativity.

While search engines such as Google, Bing, and Yahoo did, in fact, help us reach these goals by making information easily and quickly accessible, they also began to monetize searches. This led many users to alter their content to gain favor in the algorithm and generate revenue. Companies like Google needed a way to monetize their platforms, leading to the creation of AdSense, where publishers could work alongside Google to provide space within their content for advertisements in exchange for a small percentage of Google’s net profit.

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Then came the rise of platforms like Instagram and Snapchat, and later TikTok, which took monetization to a new level, making content creation a highly sought-after career choice for those looking to profit from the digital expansion. However, what these platforms failed to realize was that by appeasing their shareholders and raking in record-breaking profits year after year, social interactions would plummet, ultimately taking a toll on reproduction rates and contributing to the slow decline of the nuclear family.

But how could something originally intended to streamline work processes and enable new forms of art, music, and entrepreneurship shift toward toxicity? Social media has reduced deep, meaningful conversations, replacing them with soundbites, hot takes, and outrage culture. A majority of the male-versus-female conversations online are rage-bait, designed to spark controversy, which in turn increases views and revenue output for many online creators.

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Many of these creators may not operate this way in their day-to-day lives or even believe the things they say online. However, in today’s digital landscape, information is so easily obtained and digestible that sources are no longer required for a take to be considered factual. What we are witnessing is the rise of misinformation and echo chambers that make discussions more divisive rather than constructive. This has led to a decline in face-to-face interaction, with more men and women choosing to remain asocial (preferring solitude) and self-diagnosing as introverted or as someone with ADHD.

The rise in asocial activities such as solo traveling and dining has increased by over 24% since 2022, with more people believing that being alone means avoiding ridicule, infidelity, unrequited love, and exploitation. Digital validation from platforms like Instagram and TikTok fuels an obsession with likes, shares, and followers, impacting both self-esteem and mental health, which has also led to comparison culture. Comparing one’s life to that of an influencer or a family vlogger has been linked to increased depression and anxiety, particularly among younger users. There is growing concern over whether this trend can be reversed.

Algorithm-driven manipulation allows big tech companies to profit from user data. Meanwhile, as employees continue to be laid off, user numbers continue to rise, with more people turning to social media for income—the very platforms that are contributing to their financial struggles. The internet has shortened attention spans, making deep conversations, books, and critical thinking less appealing. While there is no direct link between social media and ADHD, research suggests that such platforms have increased symptoms of the disorder in many users, leading to negative effects on their daily interactions and relationships, whether platonic or romantic.

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According to Dr. Halima Goodwin, DNP, PMHNP-BC, CPNP-PC, of telepsych4you.com, “ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects executive function. Individuals with ADHD find it hard to focus, prioritize, initiate, and complete tasks. A lot of people think these individuals are being lazy or lack discipline. However, it is ADHD that makes it harder for people to do things normally.”

According to business leaders, “Gen Z employees are entitled, too easily offended, lazy, and generally unprepared for the workplace.” But could there be a correlation between the increase in ADHD symptoms and social media use? According to Data Portal, 44% of Gen Z report using apps for about 50% of their day to "fill up spare time," while another 48.3% say they use apps to connect with friends and family, with content consumption (e.g., videos) coming in at 33.9%.

These numbers appear to be the highest in comparison to other generations across various categories of app usage. Technology itself is not the problem; it is how we use it. Unfortunately, there does not seem to be a decline in online usage anytime soon, especially with many employees facing layoffs and turning to social media platforms for revenue through content creation, as previously mentioned.

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Social media and the internet as a whole have significantly impacted how we communicate with the people in our lives. Our shortened attention spans can translate into having less patience for daily interactions, and our constant need for digital validation may lead us to prioritize recording precious moments and sharing them with the world rather than enjoying the time spent with the people right in front of us.

So, what is the solution to everyone feeling so disconnected from reality, even though we’re more digitally connected than ever? Therapy is one option that can improve communication in relationships, which in turn can enhance work ethic, morals, and mental well-being if we choose to address these issues. “It is important to note that while therapy and professional help are valuable, individuals should not be pressured into it before they are ready,” Dr. Halima adds.

Therapy is a solid option for when—and if—we ever choose to turn off our phones and go outside. However, many of us have become so conditioned to instant gratification that the idea of waiting to be approached or courting someone for months without immediate results can feel almost pointless, leading us to revert to old habits. For those looking to disconnect and start their healing journey toward finding their ideal partner or profession—both of which require patience and strong communication skills—it’s important to give yourself and others grace. “Albeit, being aware of mental health conditions can help to reduce frustration and improve relationships.”

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With the increasing accessibility of telepsychiatry, it can be challenging to differentiate between certified professionals and self-proclaimed experts who have gained authority through social media. “High-quality, evidence-based telepsychiatry requires careful consideration of several factors, including provider credentials, treatment approaches, privacy protection, and overall client support. When choosing a provider, it’s essential to verify that they are licensed in your state and board-certified in their field. Checking their credentials through state medical or psychology boards can help ensure they meet professional standards,” Dr. Halima advises.

“The best telepsychiatry services use evidence-based methods like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Be cautious of services that promise quick fixes or rely solely on unvalidated alternative therapies, as they may not provide effective, research-backed care.”

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The first step to improving your quality of life is taking matters into your own hands by identifying the root of the problem—are you struggling to make and maintain friendships? Are your relationships falling apart too quickly? Are you having trouble finding a stable partner? Whatever the issue, communication is key. But we cannot communicate effectively if we don’t have the right tools, and the best way to obtain them is by seeking professional help. In the end, disconnecting from social media as a whole may be the key to leading a happier, wealthier, and healthier life.

by Harley Miller