The impact of social media on students’ mental health and well-being

Social media has become an integral part of the lives of students, offering them a platform to connect, share, and communicate with their peers. While social media has its advantages, concerns have arisen about its impact on the mental health and overall well-being of students. This article explores the complex relationship between social media and students’ mental health, examining both the positive and negative effects, and provides examples to illustrate these impacts.

Social comparison and self-esteem:
Social media platforms often present an idealised version of people’s lives, leading students to engage in social comparison. Constant exposure to carefully curated profiles can create feelings of inadequacy and lower self-esteem. For example, seeing peers posting pictures of glamorous vacations or perfect appearances may make students feel that their own lives fall short in comparison.

Fear of missing out (FOMO):
Students often experience FOMO when they see their peers engaging in social activities without them on social media. This fear can lead to anxiety and a sense of exclusion, contributing to a decline in mental well-being. For instance, witnessing images of friends enjoying a party or event that they were not invited to can generate feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Cyberbullying and online harassment:
Social media platforms can serve as breeding grounds for cyberbullying and online harassment, which can have severe negative effects on students’ mental health. The ability to hide behind anonymity emboldens some individuals to engage in hurtful behaviour. Instances of online bullying, such as spreading rumours, body shaming, or targeted harassment, can cause significant psychological distress.

Sleep disturbances:
The addictive nature of social media can lead to excessive screen time, particularly at night, which disrupts students’ sleep patterns. The blue light emitted by screens suppresses the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep. Consequently, students may experience difficulties falling asleep and suffer from inadequate rest, which can impair their cognitive abilities and overall well-being.

Academic pressure and procrastination:
Social media can become a major distraction for students, diverting their attention away from academic responsibilities. Engaging in social media platforms as a form of procrastination can lead to increased stress levels and decreased academic performance. For example, constantly checking notifications or spending excessive time scrolling through feeds can hamper productivity and time management.

Positive connections and support:
On the other hand, social media can also provide students with a sense of belonging and support. Online communities and forums centered around mental health, shared interests, or educational goals can offer a safe space for students to connect with like-minded individuals, seek advice, and share experiences. These platforms can serve as sources of emotional support and encouragement.

Mental health awareness and resources:
Social media plays a crucial role in raising awareness about mental health issues among students. Platforms dedicated to mental health advocacy and support provide information, resources, and helplines for those in need. Online campaigns and hashtags further facilitate conversations around mental health, reducing stigma and encouraging individuals to seek help when needed.

In conclusion, the impact of social media on students’ mental health and well-being is multifaceted. While it can contribute to feelings of social comparison, FOMO, cyberbullying, sleep disturbances, and academic pressure, it can also foster positive connections, offer support networks, raise mental health awareness, and provide valuable resources. Recognising the potential drawbacks, students should cultivate a healthy relationship with social media by setting boundaries, practicing digital detox, and seeking support when needed. Additionally, educational institutions, parents, and social media platforms themselves should promote digital literacy, online safety measures, and mental health resources to support students in navigating the digital landscape responsibly.