Take Control of Your Algorithm

Social media doesn’t have to be the enemy, BUT the content we see on it can negatively affect our mental health. You can take charge of your mental health by taking control of your algorithm. Algorithms determine, filter and recommend the content we see on social media using different data unique to us. Use these simple steps to change your algorithm to shift the content you see.

1. Manual Reset:
   • Algorithms are like sponges they soak in EVERYTHING, and they don’t want to let go. Every now and then we need to wring out that sponge for a fresh start. You can do this by
     manually resetting your algorithm for each app you own.
   • Each app has different steps for a manual reset.
     • For example, on TikTok you can go to settings > content preferences > refresh your For You feed.
     • On Instagram you can go to settings > Ads> Ad topics and you can manually deselect categories for ads you don’t want to see.
       
2. Mute Keywords or Phrases
   • Certain words, phrases, or topics can overwhelm us or negatively impact our mood. If you know specific content does this to you can take control and mute these keywords and phrases so that they do not pop up on your feed.
     • On Instagram access settings > privacy > Settings and Privacy > Hidden Words > Manage Custom Words and Phrases and enter the words or phrases you want to mute, separated by commas.
     • On TikTok you can also filter out comments on your videos by first accessing profile settings > privacy and safety > Filter Comments and activate the option ‘Filter by Keywords’ and enter keywords you want to hidden on your videos 
3. What brings you joy
   • Interact with accounts that make you feel good about yourself and brings a smile to your face.
   • Easy tip, every time you first open an app IMMEDIATELY search for a topic you know you like.
     • For example, open Instagram and search funny dog videos. Your algorithm will remember this search! Spending a few minutes intentionally looking for things that bring you joy can significantly impact the type of content you see moving forward.

Take charge of your mental health by taking control of your algorithm!