Abstract

Social media has become an important part of everyday life, changing how people communicate, share information, and form relationships. This review paper examines the impact of social media on mental health by summarizing findings from recent studies. On one hand, social media can offer positive benefits such as improved connectivity, social support, and access to mental health resources. Many users find online communities helpful in sharing their experiences and receiving emotional support, which can reduce feelings of isolation. On the other hand, research shows that excessive use of social media may lead to negative outcomes. Frequent exposure to idealized images and success stories on these platforms can create unrealistic expectations, resulting in increased anxiety, depression, and lower self-esteem. The constant comparison with others, along with experiences of cyberbullying and online harassment, further contributes to mental health challenges. Studies indicate that these negative effects are particularly strong among adolescents and young adults, who are heavy users of social media.