In a world where emojis often replace emotions, and likes can boost self-worth, it might be time to ask: Is social media really the utopia we imagined? As we venture down the vine, the shiny surface of platforms hides a thorny underbelly of toxicity. Imagine trading genuine laughter for viral memes or authentic friendships for curated posts. Spoiler alert: the reality is far less glamorous. Let’s jump into the shadows of our screens and explore the psychological impacts, disinformation spread, and strategies for reclaiming our mental well-being without getting lost in the likes.