What is Social Media?
Simple definition: Social media is a tool for
interacting and exchanging ideas via virtual
communities.
Many different types of social media sites:
Networking: Facebook, MySpace, LinkedIn
Microblogging: Tumblr, LiveJournal
Content sharing: Pinterest, Instagram
Social Media is Prevalent
According to the Pew Research Center, 72% of
adults use social networking sites as of May
2013. Facebook is most popular.
Estimated 9 out of 10 young adults actively use
social media sites.
Social Media & Mental
Health
What are the advantages of integrating social
media into agency practice?
Outreach to the potential clients, their families and
allies, and the mental health community as a whole.
Sharing info about the agency.
Creating and fostering awareness for vital mental
health issues.
Example
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v7a9XQZaQD
g
EASA Social Media
Campaign
In order to maximize potential outreach and
communication, EASA has established a
presence on three social media sites.
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/easacommunity
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/EASACommunityOR
Tumblr: http://www.easacommunity.tumblr.com
Advantages &
Disadvantages: Facebook
Facebook
High usage amongst diverse demographics.
Advanced privacy filters.
Highly interactive.
“Fishbowl” effect.
Twitter
Hashtag database allows relevant searching &
expansion beyond immediate social networks.
Specializes in quick, to-the-point info sharing.
Highly interactive.
Character limit can restrict info sharing.
Tumblr
Flexible interface maximizes personalization.
Extensive hashtag database allows open relevant
searching & expansion, reduces fishbowl effect.
Interlinks with other social media sites.
Difficult to use, requires higher skill level.
Narrower demographic usage than Fb, Twitter.
However, 61% of teens cite as favorite.
Conclusion
Social media provides valuable and flexible tools
for expanding our outreach, communication, and
fostering awareness. As the mental health
landscape shifts to focus more on the consumer
and their needs, agencies and other organizations
should consider the usage of social media to
maximize their connection and outreach.
Interactive
Please share your thoughts on your conference
experience so far with the EASA Twitter!
Login into your Twitter account.
Type your message and add @EASACommunityOR.