BY MARYAM ABDULLAHI UMAR, OCTOBER 01, 2025 | 04:21 PM

The ubiquitous nature of social media has led to a significant shift in how young adults interact, communicate, and perceive the world around them. Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok have become an integral part of daily life, offering numerous benefits, including connectivity and community building. However, a growing body of research suggests that excessive use of these platforms can have a profound impact on mental health in young adults.

Studies have shown that young adults who spend more than two hours a day on social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook are at a higher risk of developing mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. A recent study found that teenagers who spend more than three hours a day on social media are twice as likely to experience depression and anxiety. Specifically, research has linked excessive use of Instagram to increased feelings of loneliness, and depression, particularly among young women,Facebook to decreased self-esteem and sleep deprivation,Twitter to increased stress, anxiety, and feelings of overwhelm,TikTok to decreased attention span and increased pressure to conform to societal beauty standards.

Social media platforms are designed to be engaging and addictive, using algorithms that exploit human psychology to keep users hooked. The constant stream of curated and manipulated content can create unrealistic expectations and promote consumerism, materialism, and narcissism. Young adults, in particular, are vulnerable to these effects, as they are still developing their sense of identity and self-worth.

Social media platforms showcase the highlight reels of other people's lives, making it easy to compare and feel inferior. This can lead to decreased self-esteem, as young adults feel like they don't measure up to their peers. Cyberbullying, online harassment, and the pressure to present a perfect online image can further exacerbate these feelings.

While social media is unlikely to disappear anytime soon, there are steps that young adults can take to mitigate its negative effects. These include: Setting boundaries Limiting social media use to specific times of the day or week can help reduce exposure and minimize negative effects.Practicing self-care pin activities that promote relaxation and stress reduction, such as exercise, meditation, or reading, can help counterbalance the negative effects of social media,Fostering real-life connections Prioritizing face-to-face interactions and building meaningful relationships with others can help young adults develop a stronger sense of self-worth and identity.

The impact of social media on mental health in young adults is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach. By understanding the potential risks and taking steps to mitigate them, young adults can harness the benefits of social media while protecting their mental health. As we move forward in this digital age, it's essential to prioritize mental health and well-being, both online and offline.