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THE EFFECTS OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON THE
MENTAL HEALTH OF COLLEGE

STUDENTS
Sakshi Inamdar
Roll – 07
Class - TYBA
ABSTRACT :
This report investigates the impact of social media use on the mental
health of college students. With the rise of platforms like Instagram,
Twitter, and Snapchat, there has been growing concern over their
influence on mental well-being, especially in young adults. The
research includes the analysis of various psychological effects such as
anxiety, depression, and the fear of missing out (FOMO), based on
relevant literature and studies. It explores both the negative and
positive outcomes and suggests ways to mitigate the adverse effects
while encouraging responsible use of social media among students.
INTRODUCTION :
Over the past decade, social media has revolutionized the way young
adults communicate and interact. With the ever-increasing availability
of smartphones and internet access, platforms like Instagram,
Facebook, Twitter, and Snapchat have become integral parts of
everyday life, especially among college students. While social media
provides a space for students to connect, share ideas, and express
themselves, it has also raised significant concerns regarding its impact
on mental health.
Studies suggest that excessive use of social media may lead to
increased feelings of anxiety, depression, loneliness, and low self-
esteem among college students. This report explores both the negative
and positive effects of social media on mental health, supported by
research findings and suggestions for healthier use.
BODY OF THE REPORT :
1. The Role of Social Media in College Students’ Lives :

For many college students, social media is more than just a
communication tool; it is a platform for social interaction, self-
expression, and identity formation. It allows them to keep up
with friends, stay informed about events, and even develop
academic networks. However, the rapid pace of updates and
notifications can also be overwhelming. College students, who
are in a crucial stage of identity development, are particularly
susceptible to the pressures and comparisons that arise from
constant social media use.
2. Psychological Effects of Social Media Use :
2.1 Anxiety and Depression

Several studies link frequent social media usage to increased anxiety and
depression in college students. The pressure to maintain a perfect online
image, coupled with the constant comparison to others, can lead to
feelings of inadequacy. A study by Primack et al. (2017) found that those
who used social media more often had higher rates of depression. The
endless scrolling through posts and updates can also lead to information
overload, adding to stress levels.
2.2 Fear of Missing Out (FOMO)

FOMO, or the fear of missing out, is a psychological phenomenon that
arises from the belief that others are experiencing better or more exciting
things than oneself. Social media exacerbates FOMO by providing a
constant stream of updates on what others are doing. College students
may feel pressured to attend events or engage in certain activities to keep
up with their peers, leading to heightened anxiety and dissatisfaction with
their own lives.
2.3 Body Image Issues

Platforms such as Instagram place a significant emphasis on appearance,
with a focus on curated, filtered images. This can result in unhealthy body
comparisons, especially among female college students. The idealized
versions of beauty portrayed online can contribute to negative body
image, eating disorders, and lower self-esteem. A 2019 study by Perloff
showed that prolonged exposure to such content can have detrimental
effects on self-perception.
RECOMMENDATIONS :
Based on the findings in this report, it is crucial for college

students to adopt healthier social media habits to minimize its
negative effects on mental health. Below are some
recommendations:
Limit Social Media Usage: Setting boundaries around social

media usage can help reduce anxiety and prevent addiction.
Students should be encouraged to take regular breaks from their
screens and engage in offline activities.
Promote Digital Literacy: Colleges should offer workshops on

digital literacy, teaching students how to critically evaluate
online content and recognize the negative impacts of excessive
use.
Encourage Positive Use: Students should be encouraged to use

social media for positive engagement—following supportive
communities, sharing helpful resources, and connecting with
friends in meaningful ways.
Seek Support When Needed: Colleges should provide mental
health resources, such as counseling services, and promote
awareness about how students can access these when feeling
overwhelmed by social media.
Incorporate Mental Health Breaks:

Encourage students to incorporate regular mental health breaks
throughout their day where they disconnect from all digital
devices, especially social media. This can include activities such
as walking, meditating, or practicing hobbies that promote
relaxation and reduce stress.
Practice Mindful Social Media Use:

Encourage students to engage in mindful usage by being aware
of how much time they spend on social media and how it affects
their mood. They should focus on quality interactions rather
than compulsive scrolling or passive consumption of content.
CONCLUSION :
Social media is an undeniable force in the lives of college

students, offering both opportunities and challenges. While it
facilitates connection and access to information, its excessive
use can negatively impact mental health, leading to anxiety,
depression, and body image issues. By promoting responsible
use and providing adequate support, educational institutions can
help students mitigate these risks while enjoying the benefits of
social media.

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THE EFFECTS OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON THE

MENTAL HEALTH OF COLLEGE

1. The Role of Social Media in College Students’ Lives :

2.1 Anxiety and Depression

2.2 Fear of Missing Out (FOMO)

2.3 Body Image Issues

Based on the findings in this report, it is crucial for college

Limit Social Media Usage: Setting boundaries around social

Promote Digital Literacy: Colleges should offer workshops on

Encourage Positive Use: Students should be encouraged to use

Incorporate Mental Health Breaks:

Practice Mindful Social Media Use:

Social media is an undeniable force in the lives of college

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