Social media sometimes feels like a blessing and a curse. It's a great way to stay connected, network with colleagues, raise awareness about important issues and share holiday cheer.

On the other hand, studies show that heavy social media use raises your risk for depression, anxiety and loneliness. Plus, it can distract you from dealing directly with your stress, boredom or negative emotions. This may be especially true during the holidays, a time when stress, grief and other negative emotions are often high.

The good news? Healthy social media habits may help you have happier holidays this year—and in the new year to come. Get started with these tips.

Focus on healthy relationships. Spending time face-to-face or virtually with friends and family who make you feel good is a powerful way to relieve stress and improve your sense of well-being. Video chat with a loved one who lives far away. Meet an old friend for coffee, a meal or a workout—or do holiday shopping together.

In addition:

• Say hello to or smile at people when you're running errands or walking the dog. You can improve how you feel and boost others' spirits.

• Follow only positive people online. Keep a questioning attitude to avoid falling prey to misinformation, conspiracy theories and negativity.

Use your time wisely. Actively creating social connections with others is a great way to use social media and avoid doomscrolling.

In addition, set some limits:

• Cut down how often you check for updates. Time-limiting apps can help.

• Turn off notifications.

• Ban phones at the dinner table or before bed.

• Turn off devices when not in use.

• Don't compare yourself or your life to people online. What you see on social media isn't reality.

• Practice mindfulness, gratitude and engaging with the real world to improve your overall well-being.

• Take a break from social media.

Harness the holiday spirit. While it's true that the holidays can be bittersweet, research suggests that reminiscing in a positive—and not excessive—way can counteract despair and hopelessness. In other words, embracing that nostalgic feeling can help reduce loneliness and strengthen social connections.

So this holiday season, skip the social media trap and take time to recreate old traditions—or make new ones—with friends and loved ones. And take your healthy media habits with you into the new year.

Speak to your Watson Clinic Psychiatry specialist to learn more about establishing and maintaining health social media habits. Call 863-680-7877 or visit WatsonClinic.com/Psychiatry to learn more about the department and to schedule an appointment.

Sources: American Academy of Pediatrics; American Psychiatric Association; American Psychological Association; Boys and Girls Clubs of America; HelpGuide; National Institutes of Health