Instagram has become a part of everyday life.
Scrolling, posting, checking likes, replying to messages — it all feels normal. But one of the most uncomfortable conversations we had on the Bolne Do Yaar podcast was this:
Are we actually in control of Instagram, or is Instagram controlling us?
In this discussion, Farhan Diwan, along with Ayush Shah and Rohan Rahurikar, broke down how social media — especially Instagram — is quietly shaping the way Gen Z thinks, behaves, and even feels about themselves.
Farhan Diwan, founder of Areon Air and host of the Bolne Do Yaar podcast, pointed out that the biggest problem is not usage — it is dependence.
Instagram is designed to keep people engaged.
The endless scrolling, notifications, and algorithm-driven content create a loop where users keep coming back, often without realizing how much time they are spending. In fact, studies show that many young users develop an uncontrollable urge to check the app repeatedly, even when it starts affecting their real life.
And that is where it becomes dangerous.
Ayush Shah highlighted how Instagram has changed attention spans. Short-form content has made it harder for people to focus on long tasks. Whether it’s studying, working, or even having a deep conversation — the mind constantly seeks quick stimulation.
This leads to distraction.
But more importantly, it leads to mental fatigue.
Rohan Rahurikar added another layer — comparison.
Instagram is not reality.
It is a highlight reel.
People post their best moments, their best versions, their most successful days. But when someone constantly consumes this content, they start comparing their everyday life to someone else’s best moments.
This creates:
- insecurity
- self-doubt
- unnecessary pressure
Research has shown that excessive Instagram use is linked to lower life satisfaction, anxiety, and even depression, especially among young people.
But the most interesting point discussed in the podcast was this:
Instagram doesn’t just affect how we feel.
It affects how we think.
Farhan Diwan explained that constant exposure to content trains the brain to expect quick rewards. Likes, comments, shares — these become small dopamine hits that people start depending on.
Over time, this changes behavior.
People start posting not because they want to express something, but because they want validation.
And when that validation doesn’t come, it affects confidence.
This creates a cycle:
👉 post → wait → check → compare → repeat
And without realizing it, people get stuck in it.
However, the discussion was not about blaming Instagram.
Because the platform itself is not the enemy.
The real issue is how it is being used.
Farhan Diwan emphasized that social media can be powerful if used correctly. It can help people learn, connect, and even build businesses. But without awareness, it can easily turn into a distraction that takes more than it gives.
The goal is not to quit Instagram.
The goal is to regain control.
Because the moment you lose control of your time, your focus, and your attention — you lose control of your growth.
The Bolne Do Yaar podcast focuses on these real, unfiltered conversations about what Gen Z is actually going through.
Because these problems are not always visible.
But they are real.
And the first step to solving them is understanding them.