Parasocial Relationships, Social Media, & How Art Can Help Mental Health

In this episode Margaret takes the lead as she welcomes art therapist, psychotherapist, and author Amelia Knott to discuss the ethics of being online, parasocial relationships, and the impact of social media on mental health. We explore the blurred lines between personal and professional identities in digital spaces, the therapeutic power of art, and how social media fosters both connection and disconnection. Takeaways: Parasocial Relationships Feel Real—But Aren’t Always Balanced: The one-sided intimacy we form with online figures can create expectations that don’t match reality. Art Can Be a Pathway to Self-Discovery: Engaging in creative expression helps process emotions in a way that words alone sometimes can’t. The Internet Blurs Professional Boundaries: Therapists, doctors, and other professionals must carefully navigate how much of themselves to share online while maintaining ethical standards. Social Media Shapes How We See Ourselves: Being constantly observed—even by an imagined audience—can change how we experience our lives and make choices. Digital Well-Being Requires Intentionality: There’s no perfect fix for screen overuse, but being mindful of why and how we engage with digital spaces can help create a healthier relationship with technology. — Want more Amelia Knott: Instagram and TikTok: @art_therapy_irl Facebook: @art.therapy.irl Website: https://www.arttherapyinreallife.com/ Watch on YouTube: @itspresro Listen Anywhere You Podcast: Apple, Spotify, PodChaser, etc. — Produced by Dr Glaucomflecken & Human Content Get in Touch: howtobepatientpod.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices