Can Social Media Cause Depression? Social Media And Mental Health
Social media allows individuals to connect with friends, family, and strangers from anywhere, whether across the street or the world. By logging in on social media, you can see the face of a faraway friend, impart moments from your days, and see what your loved ones are up to.
Although social media can open the door to connection, this technology can also cause harm. While you may express your feelings and experiences across borders and through screens, this connection, entertainment, and information may be at the expense of your mental health, depending on how you use it.
While researchers are still studying the long-term impacts of regular social media usage, online lives can influence mental and physical well-being, sometimes to the detriment of these areas. However, some promising research suggests that individuals can use social media apps for positive social change and meaningful relationships.
Each wave of new technology brings a new generation of pros, cons, and gray areas. Learning more about these areas may help you form healthy connections online and offline.
The positive impacts of social media on mental health
Like other technologies, social media can connect and transform lives. When used responsibly, social media can enhance your mental health and social life in the following ways:
- Improving communication with friends and family around the world
- Enabling connection with new friends through hobby and identity-based communities like groups for knitters, hikers, or LGBTQ+ individuals
- Offering platforms to promote and discuss critical social issues, local businesses, and in-person events
- Giving you the ability to impart creative projects, such as photographs of visual artwork or singing videos
- Providing local and international news and other valuable information
- Offering online support groups for people in marginalized groups, living in remote areas, or requiring unique accessibility needs
- Offering a way to make friends for those with social challenges, like social anxiety disorder
Using social media thoughtfully and purposefully can allow some individuals to receive therapeutic benefits without damaging mental health or offline relationships. It may involve setting firm boundaries around screen time and installing digital "guardrails" by uninstalling apps or blocking websites that heighten your anxiety.
Research on the negative effects of social media on mental health
It takes time, patience, and a degree of self-discipline to develop healthier digital habits. However, these habits can be worth the investment. When left unchecked, an unhealthy relationship with social media can increase the likelihood of developing depression, anxiety, and other mental illnesses.
In the 21st century, researchers are still seeking more details to confirm that social media is directly "causing" depression and anxiety. However, depressive symptoms are widespread in the United States, and many experts believe this phenomenon can be attributed to a fast-changing technological landscape.
By 2030, the World Health Organization estimates that worldwide, clinical depression will become one of the top three leading causes of disease, alongside HIV-AIDS and ischemic heart disease. Anxiety is similarly prevalent, as anxiety disorders are one of the most common mental illnesses globally, affecting over 40 million adults (19.1% of the population) annually in the US.
Depression, anxiety, social media, and the COVID-19 pandemic
The global prevalence of anxiety and depression increased by 25% in the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a 2022 brief released by WHO. In the aftermath of the pandemic, more researchers are examining the relationships between depression, anxiety, and social media. Particularly during the early days of the pandemic, people relied heavily on social media for health information and connection to others.
Inspired by the shift in social media usage during this time, a group of researchers at Peking University in Beijing studied the relationship between social media exposure and psychological outcomes during the pandemic. Their results indicate that greater social media use was generally associated with worsening mental health. Specifically, higher levels of depression and anxiety were associated with consuming "disaster-related" content, which peaked during the pandemic.
The connection between mental health and social media
Before the pandemic, other research groups designed groundbreaking studies to explore the connection between social media, anxiety, and depression. In 2017, a group of researchers from The Pittsburgh School of Medicine surveyed 1,787 adults, ages 19 to 32, about their social media use and experience of depression. Results showed that social media usage was significantly associated with increased depression.
In a 2019 study by experts in Canada and Australia, results indicated a direct correlation between television, social media, and increased depression. Social media use, smartphone dependency, and compulsive behavior may also increase the likelihood of suicidal thoughts and behaviors, according to a 2021 literature review.
If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts or urges, call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or text 988 to talk to a crisis provider over SMS. They are available 24/7 to offer support. 988 also offers an online chat for those with an internet connection.
What causes social media depression and anxiety?
Upward social comparison
Upward social comparison occurs when people compare themselves to someone they perceive as "superior." Whether superiority is defined in terms of looks, money, career, or some other qualifier of success, these comparisons often promote unwanted emotions.
When you scroll through the highlights of other people's lives, you might feel your life is missing something or falling short of the "requirements" of a successful, aesthetically pleasing lifestyle. As you engage with social media and compare yourself to other, more "successful" people, try to take a step back and ask yourself: how do I define success?
Find ways you can succeed without comparing these accomplishments and goals to others. What works for you might not work for them, and vice versa.
Fear-of-missing-out (FOMO)
You may have experienced FOMO, a nagging fear that someone is having more fun or living a better life than you are. While FOMO can encourage you to go outside your comfort zone and try new activities, it can also spark anxiety, reduce self-esteem, and compel you to pick up your phone to check what others are doing and ensure you don't miss any essential news.
In a 2018 study titled "No More FOMO," researchers found that limiting social media use to approximately 30 minutes per day substantially reduced FOMO's adverse effects, including depression and loneliness. While FOMO can be a valid motivator, searching for fun on social media may be less effective than pursuing excitement and connection offline.
Cyberbullying
According to the American Psychological Association (APA), cyberbullying is using technology to demean, harm, or cause pain to another person. In modern society, cyberbullying commonly occurs via social media, video or computer games, text messages, or online discussion boards.
In a 2021 survey of US internet users, 41% of respondents said they had personally experienced online harassment, and 27% expressed that they experienced a more severe form, such as physical threats, sexual harassment, stalking, and long-term harassment.
Given the prevalence of cyberbullying, many social media companies are working to combat online abuse, sometimes using social media as a tool against itself. Built-in features like blocking, muting content, and social reporting can help survivors respond to cyberbullying. However, limiting or temporarily pausing social media usage may be the best response to persistent online bullying in some instances.
Should I stop using social media?
Whether you use social media is up to you. You may have experienced cyberbullying, FOMO, or the urge to make comparisons while scrolling on social media. However, you may have also found value, learning opportunities, and lifelong friendships in an online community. The power of social media can lie in how you use it and whether you take a moment to pause, step back, and reflect on how your usage impacts your health.
If you're debating whether to take a break from social media, consider some of the following factors before deciding.
Your age
Social media and smartphones affect people of all ages, but young people may be especially vulnerable to their adverse effects. Since the introduction of smartphones in 2007, phone usage by young people has skyrocketed: in 2015, 92% of teens and young adults owned a smartphone. Over the same period, visits to counseling centers on college campuses jumped 30%, primarily for anxiety and depression, which have continued to rise since the COVID-19 pandemic.
If you are a minor, talk to your parents about social media usage and practice internet safety. If an adult over 18 talks to you online, tell a trusted adult like your parent, caregiver, teacher, or counselor for support. Never meet up with an adult who talks to you online.
Teens and children experiencing or witnessing abuse of any kind from a family member or caregiver can reach out to the Child Help Hotline at 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature.
Your sleep
Social media may not only affect your relationships. It can also impact your sleep. Researchers note a strong correlation between increased screen time and deprived sleep, especially among adolescents. Over time, deprived sleep can increase the risk of substance use, depression, heart attack, stroke, and other unwanted outcomes.
If you are struggling with substance use, contact the SAMHSA National Helpline at (800) 662-4357 to receive support and resources.
Your mental health history
After prolonged social media usage, people with pre-existing mental health conditions may be more susceptible to developing depression and anxiety. If you're worried about the influence of social media on your mental health, consider assessing your screen time or reaching out to a professional for support.
Counseling options
Today's therapists often recognize the varied impacts of social media. For this reason, some therapists offer their services online, using technology to empower their clients. Online counseling platforms like BetterHelp can provide affordable, convenient help to people with depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. If you have an internet connection, you can match with a licensed therapist and begin addressing your relationship with social media.
Research indicates that online therapy can be as effective as face-to-face counseling. One 2019 study found that a four-week online cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) treatment program significantly reduced symptoms of insomnia and depression among shift workers while improving their overall well-being and sleep quality. Some online therapists use treatments like CBT to help clients cope with a smartphone or internet addiction. Often, CBT can reduce compulsive behaviors and improve one's ability to cope with uncomfortable emotions that fuel excessive social media usage.
Takeaway
Can social media make you depressed?
The answer to the question, “Does social media cause depression?” is complex and nuanced, however, the use of social media has been associated with an increased risk of depression and other mental health issues. Several studies have explored the relationship between social media sites and mental health, and while the connection is complex and multifaceted, several factors contribute to the potential negative impact of social media on mental well-being:
- Social Comparison: Social media platforms often present a curated version of people's lives, showcasing the highlights and positive aspects. This can lead to social comparison, where individuals compare their own lives to the seemingly perfect lives of others. This constant comparison can contribute to feelings of inadequacy, low self-esteem, and depression.
- Cyberbullying: Online harassment and cyberbullying are significant issues on social media platforms. Being a target of negative comments, harassment, or online bullying can have serious effects on an individual’s psychological well-being and contribute to depressive symptoms.
- Fear of Missing Out (FOMO): Social media can amplify the fear of missing out on social events, experiences, or opportunities. Constant exposure to the activities and achievements of others can create a sense of exclusion and lead to feelings of loneliness and depression.
- Addiction and Overuse: Excessive use of social media, leading to addiction or compulsive behavior, can interfere with real-life social interactions, sleep patterns, and overall well-being. This overuse can contribute to mental health conditions including depression.
- Negative Content Exposure: Exposure to negative or distressing content, such as news, traumatic events, or graphic images, on social media can harm mental health. Constant exposure to distressing content may contribute to feelings of anxiety and depression.
- Isolation and Loneliness: While social media platforms connect people globally, excessive reliance on online interactions may contribute to a sense of social isolation. Real-world, face-to-face social connections are essential for mental health, and the lack of these connections can contribute to feelings of loneliness and depression.
How does social media affect mental health?
Social media can have both positive and negative effects on mental health, and the impact varies from person to person. Here are some ways in which social media can influence mental health:
Positive Effects:
- Connection and Social Support: Social media platforms provide a means for social media users to connect with friends, family members, and communities of human beings, especially for those who may be geographically distant. This can enhance social support networks and contribute to positive feedback and mental well-being.
- Information and Awareness: Social media is a source of information and news, providing users with updates on various topics. This can contribute to awareness of important issues and facilitate learning.
- Expression and Creativity: Social media platforms allow users to express themselves, show their creativity, and showcase their achievements. This is considered healthy social media use and can boost self-esteem and provide a sense of accomplishment.
- Community Building: Social media enables the formation of online communities based on interests, hobbies, or experiences. This sense of belonging can positively impact mental health by fostering connections and a sense of community.
Negative Effects:
- Social Comparison: One of the well-documented negative impacts is the tendency for users to engage in social comparison. People often present curated versions of their lives on social media, leading others to compare their own lives unfavorably. This can contribute to feelings of inadequacy, low self-esteem, and depression.
- Cyberbullying: Online harassment, bullying, or negative interactions on social media platforms can lead to significant psychological distress, anxiety, and depression.
- Fear of Missing Out (FOMO): Social media can intensify the fear of missing out on social events, experiences, or opportunities. Constant exposure to others' achievements and activities may contribute to feelings of exclusion and loneliness.
- Addiction and Overuse: Excessive use of social media, leading to addiction or compulsive behavior, can negatively impact mental health. It can interfere with real-life relationships, sleep patterns, and overall well-being.
- Negative Content Exposure: Constant exposure to negative or distressing content, such as news, traumatic events, or graphic images, on social media can contribute to heightened stress, anxiety, and depression.
How does social media negatively affect depression?
Social media can contribute to or exacerbate depression in several ways. It may be important to note that the relationship between social media use and depression is complex, and individual experiences may vary. Here are some ways in which social media can negatively affect depression:
- Social Comparison
- Fear of Missing Out (FOMO)
- Cyberbullying
- Negative Social Interactions
- Unrealistic Beauty Standards
- Addiction and Overuse
- Lack of Genuine Connection
- Negative News and Information
Is social media a cause of depression among the youth?
The relationship between social media and depression among youth is complex, and it's challenging to definitively state that social media is a direct cause of depression. However, research suggests that there is an association between social media use and mental health conditions, including depression, among some individuals, particularly youth.
How does social media affect mental health in youth?
Social media can have both positive and negative effects on the mental health of youth. While it offers opportunities for connection, self-expression, and giving information, it also poses challenges that can contribute to mental health conditions. Here are some ways in which social media can impact the mental health of youth:
- Social Comparison: Youth may engage in social comparison between two groups of people, where they compare their own lives to the seemingly perfect lives presented by others on social media. Often the life that is present is not a good example of real life. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy, low self-esteem, and depression.
- Cyberbullying: Online harassment, cyberbullying, and negative interactions on social media platforms can have severe consequences for mental health. Being a target of such behavior can lead to anxiety, depression, and other emotional distress.
- Fear of Missing Out (FOMO): The constant exposure to others' activities and experiences on social media can contribute to the fear of missing out. This fear may lead to feelings of isolation, loneliness, and a sense of not measuring up.
- Addiction and Overuse: Social media may be designed in a way that encourages teens to stay online. According to the Pew Research Center, over half of teens report that it would be difficult to give up social media. Excessive use of social media, leading to addiction or compulsive behavior, can interfere with real-life social interaction, disrupt sleep patterns, lead to forgetting important tasks, and contribute to feelings of isolation. It may also impact overall well-being.
- Body Image Issues: Social media often presents unrealistic beauty standards through filtered images and edited photos. Exposure to such content may contribute to body image issues and self-esteem concerns, particularly among adolescents.
- Information Concerns: Concerns about breaches, and the potential for cyber threats on social media can contribute to stress and anxiety among youth.
How does technology affect depression?
Technology can influence depression in various ways. On the positive side, technological advancements have expanded way to mental health resources, such as online therapy platforms and mental health apps. These tools can provide valuable support and resources for individuals experiencing depression.
Technology also has potential negative impacts. Excessive use of social media, online gaming, or screen time may contribute to feelings of social isolation, cyberbullying, and disrupted sleep patterns, all of which are associated with an increased risk of depression. The constant connectivity and information overload facilitated by technology can contribute to stress and anxiety, potentially exacerbating depressive symptoms.
Why does social media make us lonely?
Social media can contribute to feelings of loneliness for several reasons:
- Social Comparison: Social media often presents a curated and idealized version of people's lives. When individuals compare their own lives to the highlight reels of others, it can lead to feelings of inadequacy and loneliness, especially if they perceive that others have more fulfilling social experiences.
- Fear of Missing Out (FOMO): Constant exposure to the activities and events of others on social media may intensify the fear of missing out. Seeing others enjoying social gatherings or experiences without them can contribute to a sense of exclusion and loneliness.
- Superficial Connections: While social media facilitates online connections, these connections can sometimes be superficial. The absence of deep, meaningful interactions can leave individuals feeling emotionally disconnected and lonely.
- Reduced Face-to-Face Interaction: Excessive use of social media may lead to a decrease in face-to-face interactions. Spending more time online and less time engaging in real-world social interactions can contribute to feelings of loneliness and isolation.
- Cyberbullying and Negative Interactions: Online harassment and negative interactions on social media can have a significant impact on mental well-being. Experiencing cyberbullying or engaging in online conflicts can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness.
- Social Isolation: Paradoxically, excessive use of social media can lead to social isolation. Spending extended periods online may detract from real-world social opportunities, reducing the quality and quantity of in-person interactions.
- Unrealistic Expectations: The curated nature of social media content can create unrealistic expectations about social relationships. When real-life interactions don't match the perceived richness of online relationships, individuals may feel a sense of disappointment and loneliness.
What are the effects of social media addiction?
Social media addiction, also known as problematic social media use or social media dependency, can have various negative effects on individuals' mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Here are 10 common consequences associated with social media addiction:
- Impaired Sleep: Excessive use of social media, especially before bedtime, can contribute to sleep disturbances and insomnia. The constant exposure to screens and the stimulation from online interactions may interfere with the natural sleep-wake cycle.
- Impact on Mental Health: Social media addiction is linked to mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, and feelings of loneliness. The constant comparison to others, fear of missing out (FOMO), and exposure to cyberbullying can contribute to negative emotional well-being.
- Decreased Productivity: Excessive time spent on social media can lead to a decline in productivity. Procrastination and distraction from important tasks can result in academic or professional challenges.
- Isolation from Real-Life Interactions: Social media addiction may lead to reduced face-to-face interactions with friends and family. Individuals may prioritize online connections at the expense of building and maintaining meaningful relationships offline.
- Negative Impact on Self-Esteem: The curated nature of social media content can contribute to unrealistic beauty standards and lifestyles. Constant exposure to such content may negatively impact self-esteem and body image.
- Physical Health Issues: Sedentary behavior associated with prolonged social media use can contribute to physical health problems, such as eye strain, headaches, and a sedentary lifestyle that may lead to weight gain.
- Impaired Concentration and Attention: Addiction to social media can affect cognitive functions, including concentration and attention. Constant notifications and the need to check updates can lead to distractibility and reduced ability to focus on tasks.
- Financial Consequences: In some cases, social media addiction can result in financial problems, especially if individuals spend money on in-app purchases, online shopping, or other digital services.
- Impact on Academic or Professional Life: Social media addiction may interfere with academic or professional responsibilities. Missed deadlines, poor academic performance, or work-related issues can result from excessive use.
- Difficulty Disconnecting: Individuals with social media addiction may find it challenging to disconnect from online platforms even when it's necessary. The compulsion to constantly check notifications can contribute to an inability to set healthy boundaries.
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