IMPACT OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON MENTAL HEALTH OF YOUNG ADULTS IN PAKISTAN

Abstract

Background: Social media has become an integral part of modern life, influencing individual perceptions, behaviors, and mental well-being. Digital platforms allow users to interact, express themselves, and shape their self-identity, but excessive usage has been linked to adverse psychological effects. Young adults, being highly engaged with social media, are particularly vulnerable to its impact on emotional and mental health. Understanding these effects within the Pakistani context is essential for developing effective interventions and awareness programs.

Objective: This study aimed to assess the impact of social media usage on the mental health of young adults in Pakistan.

Methods: A quantitative descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted over four months. A total of 150 young adults were recruited using a convenience sampling technique. Participants aged above 20 years and willing to participate were included, while those under 20 or unwilling to cooperate were excluded. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire assessing demographic characteristics, social media usage patterns, and mental health indicators. The responses were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25.0, applying descriptive and inferential statistical methods to examine the association between social media usage and mental health outcomes.

Results: Among the participants, 46.6% were aged 20–25 years, 33.3% were 26–30 years, and 20% were 31–40 years. Males comprised 53.3% of the sample, while females accounted for 46.6%. The majority (66.6%) reported spending more than 11 hours daily on social media, while 26.6% spent 6–10 hours and 6.6% used it for 1–5 hours. The most frequently used platform was TikTok (53.3%), followed by Facebook (26.6%) and Twitter (20%). Over 70% of participants reported experiencing negative mental health effects, including anxiety (72%), sleep disturbances (88%), fatigue (75%), body dissatisfaction (82%), and difficulty concentrating (85%).

Conclusion: The findings indicate that excessive social media usage negatively affects the mental health of young adults in Pakistan, contributing to anxiety, sleep disturbances, and self-perception issues. Targeted mental health awareness programs and digital well-being initiatives are essential to mitigate these effects. Future research should explore qualitative perspectives for a more comprehensive understanding of social media’s psychological impact.