Social media, for all its connectivity and entertainment, has been a double-edged sword when it comes to mental health. One of the foremost concerns is the rise of anxiety and depression among users, particularly teenagers and young adults, who have grown up in the digital age. This increase is often attributed to the constant comparison with others, the pressure to maintain a certain image online, and cyberbullying. A study by the Royal Society for Public Health found that social media platforms such as Instagram and Snapchat were often associated with increased feelings of inadequacy and anxiety. British psychologist Dr. Linda Papadopoulos said, “The more we engage in social media, the more we engage in a virtual reality. It’s like eating too much sugar. In moderation it’s fine, but after a while, it leaves you feeling pretty empty.”

Social media can be a breeding ground for unrealistic comparisons, as users tend to present the best aspect of their lives while concealing the struggles and ordinary moments. This phenomenon is known as the “highlight reel” effect, where individuals compare their regular life with the idealised versions seen online. The psychologist Dr Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic, a professor of business psychology at University College of London, explains: “Social media exaggerates the positivity bias in self-presentation. Most people don’t upload photos of ordinary or stressful events. So we keep quiet about our failures, whilst everyone’s successes get overemphasised by networks.” This persistent exposure to others’ highlights can lead to low self-esteem and increased feelings of loneliness and inadequacy.

Another alarming aspect of social media’s impact on mental health is the platforms’ design to be addictive, leading to excessive use and even dependency. These platforms are often engineered to maximise the time users spend on them through personalised recommendations, notifications, and endless scrolling feeds. This can disrupt sleep patterns, reduce real-world interactions, and increase stress levels. Professor Larry Rosen, a psychologist specialising in the “psychology of technology,” has noted the impact of this design on our mental wellbeing. He remarks, “Our lack of control over technology can be closely linked to anxiety and stress. This is often because the tech itself is designed to exploit our psychological vulnerabilities.”

Despite these negative impacts, social media also plays a vital role in fostering community and support networks, particularly for those who may feel isolated in their surroundings. Online communities can provide a sense of belonging and understanding, particularly for minority groups who might not find support in their immediate environment. For example, support groups and mental health awareness communities on platforms like Reddit can offer solace and understanding. Dr. Aaron Balick, a psychotherapist and author, has spoken about this positive avenue, stating: “Social media is not the enemy. Judicious use of these networks can actually help to bridge gaps, provide information and even help create meaningful bonds.”

Balancing the positive and negative aspects of social media influence on mental health involves a community-wide commitment to awareness and healthy usage habits. Encouraging digital literacy, promoting offline activities, and understanding the signs of mental health struggles are essential steps forward. Helen Stokes-Lampard, Chair of the Royal College of General Practitioners, has often advocated for digital detoxes, affirming that, “Switching off screens and engaging in real-life interactions can do wonders for our emotional health, especially if social media isn’t making us feel good about ourselves.” As society continues to embrace the digital world, it remains crucial to maintain a vigilant approach to mental health care in the context of social media use.