The Hidden Dangers of Social Media: What You Don't See Can Hurt You
Nina Gille Nielsen • June 12, 2025
Why Mindful Use Matters More Than Ever in a Hyperconnected World
Social media has become a seamless part of our daily lives. We scroll through photos, share updates,
laugh at memes, and connect with people from around the world — all from the palm of our hand. It’s
entertaining, convenient, and sometimes even empowering. But behind the filters, likes, and carefully
curated posts lies a darker side that often goes unnoticed.
Let’s explore some of the hidden dangers of social media and why it’s worth taking a closer look at how
it affects our lives.
1. Mental Health Strain
At first glance, social media seems like a great way to stay connected. But research shows a strong link
between excessive social media use and increased levels of anxiety, depression, and loneliness.
Comparing our real lives to others’ highlight reels can leave us feeling inadequate. The constant pursuit of
likes and validation can turn into an unhealthy obsession.
What to watch for:
- Feeling down after scrolling through others’ posts
- Obsessing over engagement metrics (likes, comments, shares)
- Using social media as a distraction from real-life problems
2. Addictive Design
Social platforms are engineered to keep you hooked. From endless scrolling to notification triggers, every
feature is designed with one goal: to keep your attention. It’s easy to lose track of time or develop
compulsive behaviors without even realizing it.
Red flags:
- Reaching for your phone first thing in the morning
- Difficulty going a few hours without checking your feed
- Mindlessly scrolling even when you're not interested
3. Privacy and Data Exploitation
Many users don’t realize just how much personal information they’re giving away — or how it’s being
used. Social media companies collect vast amounts of data, often selling it to advertisers or using it to
shape the content you see. What feels like harmless sharing can expose you to identity theft, scams, or
unwanted surveillance.
Common pitfalls:
- Oversharing location, daily routines, or personal milestones
- Ignoring privacy settings or terms of service
- Using social logins (e.g., “Login with Facebook”) across multiple sites
4. Echo Chambers and Misinformation
Social platforms tend to show you content that reinforces your existing beliefs. This creates echo
chambers where alternative perspectives are filtered out, and misinformation spreads rapidly. It’s a major driver of polarization and distorted worldviews.
How to stay grounded:
- Follow a diverse range of voices and viewpoints
- Fact-check content before sharing
- Be skeptical of sensational headlines and viral posts
5. Cyberbullying and Online Harassment
Unlike face-to-face interactions, the internet provides anonymity — which unfortunately empowers some
people to behave cruelly. Cyberbullying can have real emotional consequences, especially for teens and
vulnerable users.
Signs to take seriously:
- Receiving hateful or threatening messages
- Being targeted with embarrassing or harmful content
- Feeling unsafe or overwhelmed by online interactions
How to Protect Yourself
While it’s unrealistic (and often unnecessary) to quit social media entirely, mindful use is key. Here are a
few ways to protect your mental health and digital well-being:
- Set boundaries: Limit screen time, turn off non-essential notifications, and schedule regular offline breaks.
- Curate your feed: Unfollow accounts that make you feel anxious, and follow those that inspire and uplift.
- Think before you post: Ask yourself what you're sharing, and why.
- Review your privacy settings regularly.
- Talk about it: If social media is affecting your mental health, open up to someone you trust or seek professional support.
Social media is neither all good nor all bad, it’s a tool. Like any tool, how we use it matters. By being
aware of its hidden dangers and making conscious choices, we can enjoy its benefits without becoming its
victims. Stay informed. Stay mindful. Stay in control.
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California’s annual budget isn’t just a collection of numbers — it’s a blueprint of the values and priorities we hold as a state. From health care to education, from immigrant services to climate resilience, the 2025–26 California budget reflects decisions that will impact millions of lives in the year ahead. This Thursday, join budget experts Laura Pryor and Scott Graves from the California Budget & Policy Center for an insightful, fact-based webinar on the state’s latest budget developments. Whether you’re a nonprofit leader, policy advocate, educator, or simply a concerned Californian, this is your chance to get informed and engaged. π§ What You’ll Learn: How the state plans to balance a $322 billion budget with a projected $12 billion deficit Major updates from the May Revision — including changes to Medi-Cal eligibility, public education, and immigration support services Key investments in universal transitional kindergarten, climate resilience, school meals, and career education What’s at stake for California’s most vulnerable communities: multilingual learners, low-income families, and the uninsured π‘ Why It’s Important Budgets may seem technical, but they shape the policies and programs we rely on every day. Cuts or investments in child care, health services, or education don’t happen in isolation — they reflect legislative decisions and fiscal priorities. By understanding the budget, we can all play a more active role in advocacy and accountability. π― Who Should Attend: Nonprofit and community-based organization staff Educators and public service professionals Policy advocates and grassroots organizers Small business leaders and entrepreneurs Anyone who wants to better understand how state decisions affect real lives π Don’t miss this opportunity to stay informed, empowered, and prepared to act. β‘οΈ Register Here (Insert updated registration link if available) For more information, visit: calbudgetcenter.org
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Get ready, LA County youth! The Department of Youth Development is excited to announce the 2025 Rooted In Us Summer Series, packed with incredible events designed to empower, inspire, and connect young people across LA County. We’re bringing together the best local resources, creating safe, vibrant spaces where youth can learn, play, and grow together this summer. What to Expect at Each Event Each event in the series will feature a Youth Development Resource Fair, filled with: Free delicious food Awesome music and live youth performances Fun, engaging activities you won’t want to miss Connections with amazing community-based organizations Opportunities to meet youth advocacy & development groups Exciting raffles, giveaways, and on-site youth services This is more than just an event, it’s a movement to build stronger youth networks across LA County! Event Information: Antelope Valley π Jackie Robinson Park π August 2 β° 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. π Register: bit.ly/rootedinAV East LA π Belvedere Park π August 16 β° 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. π Register: bit.ly/rootedinELA South LA π Jesse Owens Park π August 23 β° 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. π Register: bit.ly/rootedinSLA Long Beach π Recreation Park π September 6 β° 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. π Register: bit.ly/rootedinLB San Fernando Valley π El Cariso Park π September 13 β° 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. π Register: bit.ly/rootedinSFV These free, youth-centered events are an amazing opportunity to connect, learn, and have fun with your community. Register now for your closest event! And don’t forget to follow @lacountyyouth on Instagram for updates, sneak peeks, and behind-the-scenes highlights. Got questions? Email us at events@dyd.lacounty.gov . Let’s make this summer unforgettable, because when we’re Rooted In Us, we grow together.
Saturday, July 26 | 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM Goldwater Community Center @ Westfield Topanga Mall 21710 Vanowen St, Canoga Pa rk, CA 91303 Designed to spark meaningful conversations and create pathways for women in media, this conference brings together creators, industry leaders, and changemakers who are redefining the future of storytelling. Featured Panel: Short Film & Documentary Join an inspiring discussion with Ayanna Anene, Mildred Marie Langford, and Roe More as they dive into: The power of storytelling The creative process Representation in media Production challenges Pathways to impact and visibility This isn’t just about film, it’s about reclaiming the narrative and creating new spaces for women in entertainment. Plus, Don’t Miss These Highlights Access to Capital Panel – Learn how to overcome funding barriers and finance your creative vision Local Vendor Showcase – Shop small, support local businesses, and discover unique products Film & Vendor Submissions Still Open! Additional Resource for Women Creatives & Entrepreneurs If you’re looking for ongoing support beyond the conference, check out New Economics for Women (NEW). Their programs empower women to build economic stability through entrepreneurship, education, and access to funding opportunities—perfect for creatives ready to scale their vision. Explore NEW’s women-focused resources here: New Economics for Women – Women’s Business Center This conference is your chance to: Connect with industry professionals Gain insights from women leaders breaking barriers in film and media Discover funding resources and community support Be part of the movement for more inclusive storytelling Limited seating is left, reserve your spot now and join us in redefining the future of content creation. π Reserve Your Spot Today! Sources & Further Resources New Economics for Women – Women’s Business Center Empowering women entrepreneurs with training, mentorship, and access to capital. Women in Film – Advocacy & Professional Development A nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the careers of women working in the screen industries. Sundance Institute – Women at Sundance Program Providing support, mentorship, and funding for women filmmakers. National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) Connecting women entrepreneurs to resources, advocacy, and a nationwide network.
As the world grapples with the realities of climate change, the tech industry finds itself in a paradoxical role: both a major contributor to global emissions and a powerful force for sustainability. Enter Green IT. The practice of designing, using, and disposing of technology in a way that minimizes environmental impact. Green IT is no longer optional. It’s a crucial component of corporate responsibility and global climate action. The Carbon Footprint of Technology While digital services feel “invisible,” they rely on vast infrastructure. Data centers, networks, and devices that consume enormous energy. Key Stats: The ICT industry (information and communications technology) accounts for 2–4% of global carbon emissions, comparable to the aviation industry. Data centers alone could consume up to 8% of global electricity by 2030 if trends continue. π Source: International Energy Agency (IEA) https://www.iea.org/reports/data-centres-and-data-transmission-networks What Is Green IT? Green IT refers to environmentally responsible practices in the entire IT lifecycle: Manufacturing with sustainable materials Reducing energy consumption in operations Optimizing data storage and cloud resources Proper e-waste disposal and recycling Extending device lifecycles and reducing redundancy How Tech Can Help the Planet 1. Green Data Centers Modern data centers are increasingly powered by renewable energy, cooled using efficient methods (like liquid cooling), and optimized through AI and automation to reduce waste. π Example: Google’s data centers use AI from DeepMind to cut cooling energy by up to 40%. π Source: Google Sustainability Report https://sustainability.google 2. Cloud Computing Efficiency Cloud platforms like AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud operate at higher efficiency than most on-premises setups. Migrating to the cloud can reduce carbon footprints by 88% in some cases. π Source: Accenture & Microsoft Report (2020) https://news.microsoft.com/2020/07/28/cloud-computing-can-cut-carbon-emissions/ 3. Remote Work Technologies Video conferencing, VPNs, and cloud collaboration tools reduce commuting and office energy consumption. A study by Global Workplace Analytics estimates remote work can reduce emissions by 54 million tons per year in the U.S. alone. π Source: Global Workplace Analytics https://globalworkplaceanalytics.com/telecommuting-statistics 4. IoT for Environmental Monitoring Smart sensors are being used to monitor and reduce water usage, control heating systems, and optimize energy use in agriculture and smart buildings. π Example: IBM’s Green Horizons project uses AI and IoT to forecast pollution and improve energy efficiency in cities. π Source: IBM Green Horizons https://www.ibm.com/case-studies/green-horizons 5. E-Waste Reduction Around 57 million tons of e-waste is generated globally every year — and only 17.4% is formally recycled. Solutions include: Extending device life through repair and reuse Leasing tech instead of buying (Device-as-a-Service) Encouraging certified recycling programs π Source: Global E-waste Monitor 2020 https://globalewaste.org Best Practices for Green IT in Organizations Enable power management on devices Right-size cloud usage to avoid overprovisioning Choose energy-efficient hardware (e.g., ENERGY STAR certified) Consolidate servers through virtualization Train staff in digital sustainability practices The Future of Green IT Green IT is expected to evolve further with the rise of: AI for carbon optimization Green blockchain and crypto solutions Sustainable software engineering Carbon-aware computing workloads (scheduling tasks when renewable energy is most available) π Source: Green Software Foundation https://greensoftware.foundation The tech industry has a unique opportunity to lead the charge in climate action, both by reducing its own footprint and enabling smarter, greener solutions across industries. By adopting Green IT principles, companies can align business success with sustainability. After all, the future of technology should not only be smart, it should be sustainable.
For many small businesses and nonprofit organizations, the uncertainty surrounding immigration enforcement can be overwhelming. That’s why the Los Angeles County Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) is partnering with Public Counsel to host a free Know Your Rights webinar designed to give you the knowledge and tools you need to stay prepared. π Webinar Details π
Wednesday, July 23, 2025 β° 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM π» Free online event This one-hour session will provide practical guidance to help nonprofit organizations and small businesses navigate potential immigration enforcement visits. Topics include: Your rights and responsibilities when interacting with immigration agents How to develop written policies that clearly address immigration agent interactions Tips for navigating immigration enforcement raids with confidence and clarity Knowledge is your first line of defense. This webinar will empower small businesses and nonprofits with critical information to protect their employees, clients, and communities. Especially those serving vulnerable populations. How to Prepare Your Organization in Advance Even if you don’t expect an immigration visit, having a plan in place can make all the difference. Here are a few proactive steps you can take: Train your staff on what to do and who to contact if immigration agents arrive. Designate a point of contact who will handle all interactions with law enforcement. Review your organization’s documents and policies to ensure they’re current and accessible. Post Know Your Rights information in visible areas for staff and visitors. Connect with legal resources in your area for ongoing support. For more detailed guidance, check out the Immigrant Legal Resource Center (ILRC) Know Your Rights Toolkit . Who Should Attend? Small business owners Nonprofit leaders and staff Community organizations working with immigrant populations Anyone interested in learning how to protect their rights Don’t wait, reserve your spot for this free webinar now and share it with your network! π Register Here Together, we can create informed, prepared, and empowered workplaces. π Sources & Further Reading Public Counsel – Immigration Rights Resources Immigrant Legal Resource Center (ILRC) – Know Your Rights Toolkit Los Angeles County Department of Economic Opportunity
You open Spotify, and like magic there’s a playlist that seems weirdly perfect for your mood. New songs you’ve never heard, but instantly love. How does it do that? Let’s take a peek behind the scenes and explain how Spotify recommends music, even if you’re not a tech person. It’s Not Magic. It’s Algorithms. Spotify doesn’t have a psychic DJ sitting in a room picking songs just for you. Instead, it uses smart computer programs called algorithms, a fancy word for a set of rules that helps the app make decisions. In Spotify’s case, these algorithms analyze your listening habits, compare them with other users, and make educated guesses about what you might like next. 3 Key Ways Spotify Recommends Songs Spotify uses a combination of three main technologies: 1. Collaborative Filtering: People Like You Liked This Think of it like this: If you love Artist A and B, and someone else also loves Artist A and B plus Artist, maybe you’ll like Artist C too. This is the same trick Netflix and Amazon use. Spotify tracks: What songs you play a lot What you skip quickly What you save to your playlists What people with similar tastes are listening to Then it finds patterns and overlaps to suggest new tracks. Source: Spotify Engineering Blog – Discover Weekly 2. Natural Language Processing: What the Internet Says Spotify also “reads” the internet. It scans music blogs, news articles, tweets, and even Reddit threads to see: What people are saying about a song or artist Which words (like "upbeat", "jazzy", "chill") are associated with which songs This helps Spotify understand the vibe of a song, even if it hasn’t been widely streamed yet. π Source: Spotify R&D on NLP 3. Audio Analysis: Listening to the Music Itself Yes, Spotify actually listens to the songs too. But with machine learning, not human ears. It analyzes technical aspects like: Tempo (beats per minute) Key and pitch Danceability Mood (based on patterns of sound) This helps Spotify group songs by their "feel", even if they’re from different genres or languages. π Source: Spotify’s Audio Features Example: How Discover Weekly Is Made Spotify’s Discover Weekly playlist — the one that updates every Monday — is created using all three techniques. Here’s a simple version of how it works: Look at what you love. Find other people who love the same stuff. See what they’re listening to that you haven’t heard. Filter songs that match your taste and listening habits. Serve them up in a playlist. The more you listen and interact, the better it gets. Bonus: Spotify’s "Taste Profile" Spotify keeps a secret “taste profile” for every user, like a fingerprint of your music personality. It updates constantly based on your behavior. That’s why it feels like the app knows you. You can even peek into this by visiting: https://www.spotify.com/us/account/privacy/ Spotify does a great job of guessing your tastes — but it’s still guessing. That’s why it sometimes throws in a song you don’t love. Still, the more you use it, the more the algorithm learns about you. So next time Spotify nails your mood with the perfect track, now you’ll know: it’s not luck. It’s math, data, and a whole lot of smart programming. π Sources and Further Reading Spotify Engineering: Discover Weekly Spotify Audio Analysis Docs MIT Technology Review on Music Recommenders How NLP Is Used in Spotify FastCompany – The Secret Behind Discover Weekly