Social media has undoubtedly left its mark on this generation. From trending topics to viral memes and the unprecedented success of influencers, social media’s influence is inescapable. However, the question remains: is this impact positive or negative?
The rise of social media usage over the past few years is staggering. Since 2010, the number of social media users has doubled, and as of July 2024, an estimated 5.17 billion people worldwide are active on social platforms. Among adolescents aged 13-17, 95% report using social media, with one-third admitting they use it constantly or almost constantly.
This surge in social media use has been increasingly associated with rising rates of mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, loneliness, and even suicidal ideation. A study of American teens aged 12-15 found that those who spend more than three hours a day on social media are twice as likely to report mental health problems compared to those who use it less. The issues observed included heightened signs of depression and anxiety.
Adults aren't immune to the negative effects either. In a study of 563 young adults in the U.S., aged 18-22, participants who spent more time on social media were more likely to exhibit signs of dispositional anxiety. Those who scored above the clinical threshold for anxiety were notably heavier users of social platforms, indicating a possible link between prolonged usage and the development of clinical anxiety.
These negative outcomes may stem from several factors. One significant contributor is FOMO (fear of missing out), where individuals feel anxious about being left out of social events or trends. Another factor is the pervasive use of filters that alter physical appearance, leading to insecurities and poor self-image. Additionally, cyberbullying, disrupted sleep patterns, and comparison culture further compound the mental health challenges faced by many users.
While social media offers numerous benefits—such as staying connected, learning new information, and promoting creativity—the mental health risks associated with excessive usage are a growing concern. Understanding the potential dangers and promoting healthier online habits are crucial steps toward mitigating these negative effects.
Sources:
“Social Network Usage & Growth Statistics (2024).” Backlinko, 6 Sept. 2024, backlinko.com/social-media-users.
Robinson, Laurence, and Melinda Smith. “Social Media and Mental Health: Social Media Addiction.” HelpGuide.Org, 21 Aug. 2024, www.helpguide.org/mental-health/wellbeing/social-media-and-mental-health.
Katella, Kathy. “How Social Media Affects Your Teen’s Mental Health: A Parent’s Guide.” Yale Medicine, Yale Medicine, 17 June 2024, www.yalemedicine.org/news/social-media-teen-mental-health-a-parents-guide#:~:text=According%20to%20a%20research%20study,including%20depression%20and%20anxiety%20symptoms.
Zubair, Ujala et al. “Link between excessive social media use and psychiatric disorders.” Annals of medicine and surgery (2012) vol. 85,4 875-878. 27 Mar. 2023, doi:10.1097/MS9.0000000000000112
Office of the Surgeon General (OSG). “Social Media and Youth Mental Health.” Social Media and Youth Mental Health: The U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory [Internet]., U.S. National Library of Medicine, 1 Jan. 1970, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK594759/#:~:text=Up%20to%2095%25%20of%20youth,8%E2%80%9312%20use%20social%20media.
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