Social media has proven to be a powerful platform for some – from Rose McGowan’s statements following the Harvey Weinstein sexual abuse allegations to the #MeToo movement that soon followed across Twitter  – allowing it to be viewed as a useful tool for spreading an important message, quickly. 

But, it can also be seen as a breeding ground for unwanted online abuse as actress Daisy Ridley has discovered.

In an interview with the Radio Times, the actress – who is due to reprise her role as Rey in Star Wars: The Last Jedi – explained why she will never return to the platform after quitting it last September.

“I came off it [social media] last September and I will never go back on,” she said.

Ridley went on to say that she believes social media has a detrimental effect on people’s mental health, especially young people.

“The more I read about teenage anxiety, the more I think it’s highly unhealthy for people’s mental health,” she said.

“It’s such a weird thing for young people to look at distorted images of things they should be.”

Since playing Rey in Stars Wars, Ridley has been approached by many fans asking for selfies.

“Life suddenly got a bit different. I’m definitely recognised more, but I find the whole taking pictures thing weird,” she said. 

“I’d prefer to have a conversation than someone asking for a picture, but I guess people feel the need to prove they have had the interaction through social media.”

Back in 2015, the actress hit back at social media users for body shaming her and throwing misogynistic comments her way by posting a statement on Instagram and refusing to “apologise for how I look”. 

We hear you, Ridley.

Images: Rex Features