Social media isn’t going anywhere anytime soon, so since teens and young adults are known to spend several hours a day on it, it’s best to know some basic etiquette to keep us on the same page and to be sure we’re respecting one another.

First off, you don’t HAVE to follow any specific accounts or particular people. But if you are, make sure they aren’t making you feel badly or insecure about yourself. If they trigger you in any way, just UNFOLLOW them and don’t feel bad about it!! Your emotional health should definitely be the #1 priority.

Secondly, believe it or not, you’re probably not going to persuade strangers to change their beliefs on any given subject, be it politics or whatever the hot topic of the moment is. So understanding that upfront will help you to navigate how persuasive you are in your posts!

Thirdly, and probably most importantly, avoid oversharing on social media. If you’re going through a tough time, call or text a trusted friend first, before blasting it all over the internet. Sometimes our posts aren’t interpreted how we intended them to be or people can take screenshots of what you say and use it against you later. People can also make assumptions about you or gossip about you, and unfair as it may be, maybe not forgive you for something you said as well. It’s best to take a moment and really think about what you’re going to share because it’s going to be ‘out there’ forever.