21-year-old university student and social media influencer, Hannah Milton, who boasts 1.6 million followers on TikTok, opened up about the loneliness and online abuse she faces despite her massive following. In an interview with BBC News, Hannah revealed that while she creates her dance videos and comedy sketches in the comfort of her bedroom, the hate she receives online often makes her hesitant to share her experiences with others.

Hannah, who hails from south Wales, began creating content on TikTok and Instagram in 2020 during the lockdown to alleviate boredom. She found solace in acting, a passion she pursued at home when Covid restrictions prevented her from engaging in outdoor activities. However, as her videos gained traction and went viral, Hannah noticed a surge in trolling and negative comments.

Despite the challenges, Hannah has dedicated herself to content creation, producing sketches, dances, and makeup routines for her audience. She even conducts live streams on TikTok, sometimes lasting up to eight hours. While she finds joy in entertaining her followers, Hannah acknowledges the toll that online abuse takes on her mental health.

Hannah's journey into social media fame was inspired by her admiration for YouTubers during her teenage years. However, she quickly realized that the reality of being an influencer comes with its own set of challenges. Despite her struggles, Hannah finds support in her strong relationship with her mother, who helps her navigate the negativity she encounters online.

Abi Butcher, Hannah's manager and the owner of Creator Productions, emphasized the pressures faced by influencers, noting that success at a young age can make them vulnerable to exploitation. Abi encourages influencers to prioritize their mental wellbeing and step back from content creation if necessary.

Dr. Margarita Panayiotou of Manchester University highlighted the need for further research into the mental health implications of social media content creation. She emphasized the importance of understanding the impact of online comments and the pressures of working in the digital sphere.

As Hannah continues to navigate the highs and lows of social media fame, her story sheds light on the complex challenges faced by content creators in the digital age.