For some people, food is not about whether it looks good in a photo, follows the latest wellness trend or contains the perfect balance of nutrients. It is simply about having something to eat. Others have to choose between buying food and paying for essential medication, leaving little room for the lifestyle often presented online as normal.
While social media can make taking a mental health break or avoiding burnout look like an essential part of self-care, many people cannot afford to stop working. Some wake up at 4 a.m. to get to work, knowing that missing a shift could mean losing money they need for rent, food or other basic expenses.
The same gap exists when it comes to childhood. While Instagram is full of carefully planned activities, school routines and picture-perfect family moments, some children miss school because they have to help care for younger siblings or support their parents.
Instagram can show one version of everyday life, but it is only a carefully selected part of it. Behind the aesthetic meals, morning routines and wellness trends are people whose biggest concern may simply be getting through the day, putting food on the table and making sure their families have what they need.
