The Impact of Social Media on Mental

Health

Course: Research Methods

Specialty: Electrotechnics III
Bachelor Degree

2024-2025 i
Table of content
Abstract.................................................................................................................. 1
Introduction ........................................................................................................... 1
The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health ...................................................... i
1.Anxiety and Depression: ................................................................................. 2
2.Sleep Disturbances: ......................................................................................... 2
3. Cyberbullying:................................................................................................ 2
4. Unrealistic Expectations: ............................................................................... 2
The Reasons Behind the Negative Impact of Social Media on Mental Health .... 3
1. Social Comparison: ...................................................................................... 3
2. Selective Presentation: ................................................................................... 3
3. Screen Dependence: ....................................................................................... 3
4. Fear of Missing Out (FOMO): ....................................................................... 3
Strategies for Mitigating the Negative Effects of Social Media on Mental Health
............................................................................................................................... 3
1. Set Boundaries: .............................................................................................. 3
2. Practice Empathy: .......................................................................................... 3
3. Seek Face-to-Face Interactions: ..................................................................... 3
4. Take Breaks:................................................................................................... 3
5. Use Social Media Intentionally: ..................................................................... 4
6. Monitor and Limit Screen Time: ................................................................... 4
7. Seek Professional Help: ................................................................................. 4
Conclusion ............................................................................................................. 5
References ............................................................................................................. 6

ii
Abstract
Research indicates that excessive use of social media can be related to
depression and
Anxiety. This study conducted a systematic review of social media and mental
health, focusing
On Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Based on inclusion criteria from the
systematic review, a meta-analysis was conducted to explore and summarize
studies from the empirical literature on the relationship between social media
and mental health. Using PRISMA guidelines on PubMed and Google Scholar, a
literature search from January 2010 to June 2020 was conducted to identify
studies addressing the relationship between social media sites and mental health.
Of the 39 studies identified, 20 were included in the meta-analysis. Results
indicate that while social media can create a sense of community for the user,
excessive and increased use of social media, particularly among those who are
vulnerable, is correlated with depression and other mental health disorders.

Mental health is defined as emotional, psychological, and social well-being.

Introduction
Social media has become an integral part of our daily lives. We use it to connect
with friends and family, share our experiences, and stay informed about current
events. However, recent studies have suggested that excessive social media use
can have a negative impact on our mental health. In this presentation, we will
explore the relationship between social media use and mental health, and discuss
strategies for mitigating the negative effects.

1
 The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health

1. Anxiety and Depression:

Studies have shown that excessive social media use can lead to increased
symptoms of anxiety and depression. This is partly due to the fact that social
media platforms often present the "highlight reels" of other people's lives,
making it easy to compare and feel inadequate.
2. Sleep Disturbances:
Exposure to screens and the constant notifications from social media can disrupt
sleep patterns, leading to sleep disturbances and fatigue.

3. Cyberbullying:
Social media can be a breeding ground for bullying and harassment, which can
have serious negative effects on mental health.
4. Unrealistic Expectations:
Social media often presents unrealistic and unattainable beauty and lifestyle
standards, leading to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem.
Social media has various impact especially youth since they are the most
important part of the population that are used to social media.
Some people use the social media to gain their lives whereas others use it
for other purpose mostly for bad purposes.

Positive Impact of the social media

1. Commercial purpose
Some people use the social media to sell their goods and
services such as phones, jewelries…
2. Educational purpose
Some people use the social for educational orientations

2
The Reasons behind the Negative Impact of Social Media on
Mental Health

1. Social Comparison:
Social media platforms foster social comparison, which can lead to feelings of
inadequacy and low self-esteem.
2. Selective Presentation:
Social media platforms often present a selective version of other people's lives,
creating unrealistic expectations and feelings of disappointment.
3. Screen Dependence:
Excessive social media use can lead to screen dependence, disrupting sleep
patterns and leading to sleep disturbances.
4. Fear of Missing Out (FOMO):
Social media can create a sense of FOMO, leading to feelings of anxiety and
stress.

Strategies for Mitigating the Negative Effects of Social Media on

Mental Health

1. Set Boundaries:
Establish boundaries for social media use, such as specific times of the day or
days off from screens.
2. Practice Empathy:
Practice empathy towards others online, recognizing that everyone has flaws and
imperfections.
3. Seek Face-to-Face Interactions:
Seek face-to-face interactions with others, such as group activities or social
gatherings.
4. Take Breaks:
Take regular breaks from social media to recharge and relax.

3
5. Use Social Media Intentionally:
Use social media with a specific purpose in mind, such as staying in touch with
friends or staying informed about current events.
6. Monitor and Limit Screen Time:
Monitor and limit screen time, especially before bed.

7. Seek Professional Help:

Seek professional help if social media use is negatively impacting mental
health.

4
Conclusion

Social media can have a negative impact on mental health, particularly if used
excessively or in a way that fosters social comparison and selective presentation.
However, by establishing boundaries, practicing empathy, seeking face-to-face
interactions, and taking breaks, we can mitigate the negative effects of social
media on mental health. Thank you for your attention, and I am happy to answer
any questions you may have.

5
References

- American Psychological Association. (2017). Stress in America: Coping with

Change.
- Best, P., Manktelow, K., & Taylor, B. (2014). Online risk and harm: The
experiences of vulnerable youth. Journal of Youth Studies, 17(5), 631-646.
- Burke, M., Marr, J., & McGannon, K. (2010). Social network activity and
social well-being. Computers in Human Behavior, 26(6), 1427-1435.
- Kross, E., & Verduyn, P. (2013). Facebook use predicts declines in subjective
well-being in young adults. PLoS ONE, 8(8), e69861.

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