A Conceptual Study on The Impact of Social Media Usage on Anxiety and Depression in College Students

Abstract

Social media has become an integral part of the daily lives of college-aged individuals, providing platforms for communication, self-expression, and connection. It has transformed how young adult interact with the world, offering unique opportunities for personal growth, relationship building, and access to global communities. While social media enables connection and expression, it also expose challenges such as social comparison, cyber bullying, and the pressure to maintain curate online personas, all of which can contribute to feelings of inadequacy and emotional distress. This study explores the intricaterelationshipbetweensocialplatformusageandmentalhealthchallengesamongcollege-aged individuals, shedding light on how these platforms can amplify psychological vulnerabilities. Mechanisms such as disrupted sleep patterns, compulsive engagement, and exposure to idealized content further exacerbate these negative effects, creating a complex interplay between online behaviorsandemotionalwell-being.Thefindingshighlightthecriticalneedforinterventionsaimed at promoting digital literacy, encouraging balanced social media use, and implementing platform-specific strategies to reduce the harmful impact of these platforms. By addressing these challenges, stakeholders can help foster healthier digital habits, support emotional resilience, and enhance the mental well-being of young adults navigating the digital landscape.