Impact of Social Media on Mental Health | Research & Facts
Explore how social media algorithms influence mental health, covering both positive community benefits and negative effects like anxiety and depression.
The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health
Hudson Galante
CIS 110
Introduction
Social media is used every day
Most young adults are online constantly
Mental health concerns are increasing
How Social Media Works
Uses algorithms to show content you like
Notifications & likes keep users engaged
Designed to keep people scrolling
Positive Effects
Helps people stay connected
Builds online communities
Can provide emotional support
Negative Effects
Anxiety and depression
Low self-esteem
Constant comparison to others
Long-Term Effects
Increased mental health risks
Depends on how it's used
Passive Use
Worse effects
Active Use
Better outcomes
Key Takeaway
Social media has both positives and negatives
It affects mental health in different ways
Awareness of usage is important
References
Pew Research Center
Harvard Business School
American Psychological Association
National Institute of Mental Health
Sources used for academic research.
- social-media
- mental-health
- psychology
- technology-impact
- well-being
- algorithms
- digital-health