The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health: A Comprehensive Literature Review
Description
The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health: A Comprehensive Literature Review Research Hypothesis Our research hypothesis is that excessive social media use is associated with negative mental health outcomes, particularly depression, anxiety, and sleep disturbances. This hypothesis is based on the growing body of literature suggesting a link between social media use and mental health issues, particularly among adolescents and young adults. Data and Findings This comprehensive literature review synthesized findings from numerous studies investigating the relationship between social media use and mental health. The data was gathered through a systematic search of major databases, including PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus, and Web of Science. The search strategy employed a combination of keywords and Boolean operators to identify relevant studies, focusing on research published within the past 10 years. The review revealed a complex and multifaceted relationship between social media use and mental health. While some studies suggested a positive association, the majority of research indicated a negative correlation, supporting our initial hypothesis. Notable Findings: • Increased risk of depression and anxiety: Multiple studies found a positive correlation between excessive social media use and depressive symptoms, including feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and low self-esteem. Similarly, social media use was linked to increased levels of anxiety, potentially due to social comparison, cyberbullying, and fear of missing out (FOMO). • Sleep disturbances: Excessive social media use can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to insomnia, reduced sleep quality, and shortened sleep duration. Sleep deprivation can further exacerbate mental health issues, including depression and anxiety. • Social isolation and loneliness: While social media platforms aim to connect individuals virtually, they can paradoxically contribute to increased feelings of loneliness and social isolation. Excessive social media use can lead to a decrease in face-to-face interactions, resulting in a sense of isolation. • Cyberbullying: Social media platforms can facilitate cyberbullying, which can have severe psychological consequences, including increased anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation. • Body image concerns: Social media platforms often present idealized and unrealistic portrayals of physical appearance, which can contribute to body image concerns and dissatisfaction.