THE IMPACT OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON MENTAL HEALTH: LEGAL HANDICAP ON PREVENTION AND ENFORCEMENT

Abstract

Social media's impact on mental health is a growing concern. This paper examines the relationship between social media use and mental health outcomes among young adults, exploring the potential risks and benefits of social media use Social media has become an integral part of young adults' lives, with over 90% of individuals aged 18-24 using social media platforms.2 However, excessive social media use has been linked to increased symptoms of depression, anxiety, and lonelinesThis paper examines the relationship between social media use and mental health outcomes among young adults, exploring the potential risks and benefits of social media use. The study used a mixed-methods approach, involving an online survey of 500 young adults (ages 18-24) assessing social media use, mental health symptoms, and demographic information. Findings indicate that excessive social media use is associated with increased symptoms of depression, anxiety, and loneliness. Qualitative analysis highlights themes of social comparison, fear of missing out (FOMO), and online harassment. The paper concludes that social media has a significant impact on mental health, and mental health professionals should consider the role of social media in their clients' lives. The study's findings have implications for promoting healthy social media use and mitigating potential negative effects.