‘The evidence is overwhelming’: Spike O’Neill says it’s time to (mostly) ditch social media and enjoy life

After another new study found that social media is harmful for mental health, “The Jake and Spike” co-host Spike O’Neill is ready to declare, “The evidence is overwhelming.” And he thinks something should be done.

According to one study, teens are spending five-to-seven hours a day, on average, on social media. But adults are addicted, too.

“I don’t even know how you have five-to-seven hours a day to stare at your phone,” said host Jake Skorheim.

“I got up one day, and I grab for my phone, and I asked myself, ‘Why am I doing this?'” said Spike.  “It’s called Fear of Missing Out, FOMO. What did I miss? I have to know the latest and greatest.”

“Unless it’s an air raid siren or tsunami warning, then let it go,” Spike continued.

For the full discussion, listen below

Social media shouldn’t replace human interaction

Spike said he put his phone down the past few days. And he reaped significant benefits.

“My kid and I did a whole bunch of ‘honey-do’s’ this weekend and it was great! I wasn’t comparing myself to anyone else. I feel so much for young people,” Spike said.

Jake hopes society will eventually get past its infatuation with social media. “I hope so, buddy,” Spike said.

“Imagine that everything you post on social media is like putting it on a billboard across from your mom’s house,” he continued. Jake said he is going to try to keep his kids away from mobile phones and social media as long as he can.

Listen to “The Jake and Spike Show” weekdays from noon to 3 p.m. on KIRO Newsradio 97.3 FM. Subscribe to the podcast here.