How does Facebook affect our emotional well-being?

There have been numerous studies recently suggesting that using Facebook could have negative effects on people's psychological health.

One study linked facebook use and teen depression. Another found a link between using Facebook and lower grades in college. This one suggested Facebook users are insecure, narcissistic and have low self-esteem. 

On the positive side, this study found that Facebook Enhances Self-Esteem.

My guess is that Facebook serves as a refuge for people who already have emotional problems, so there is a correlation, but not necessarily a cause-and-effect relationship.

Jay Leno joked about the study linking Facebook use among teenagers and depression, by saying, "You know what else leads teenagers to be depressed? Everything. They are teenagers."

My personal experience with Facebook has been mostly positive and I have been able to avoid the negative effects.

Since I've been on Facebook, I've gotten more Happy Birthday wishes than any time in my life.

When someone posts a status update saying they are sick, they get more "Get Well" wishes than they could in real life. I'm sure it does wonders for their immune systems.

People vent off when they have minor inconveniences such as being stuck in traffic, studying for an exam, or having a tough day at work.

Facebook is giving people the opportunity to give and receive love more than any time in history. This does wonders not only for the person who is facing difficulties, but for the people giving the empathy. Compassion heals the giver as well as the receiver.

In terms of good news, I delight vicariously when I see a friend sharing joyful news. There are people who might feel envious when they see people posting pictures of them having fun, but jealousy, envy and other destructive emotions are things people have to work on themselves. It's not Facebook's fault. They need to remember that people who post happy pictures are not necessarily always that happy.

The "Like" feature is a great way for people to contribute their "two cents." Many people often don't have the time or the eloquence to give complements to others, but clicking "Like" is easy for the giver and effective to the receiver.

From what I see, maliciousness on Facebook is rare because people are cautious of appearing cruel in public. Duplicity is also rare because it's hard to hide.