Authors : Ajit Gaikwad; Dr. Padmakar Sahare; Dr. Chhabi Sinha Chavan

Volume/Issue : Volume 10 - 2025, Issue 2 - February

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/ydkpx4s6

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/v6fxmth3

DOI : https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.14915636

Abstract : Since the social media explosion Generation Z's lifestyles and behaviors underwent major changes specifically within the urban environment of Pune. Research explores how Gen Z mental health stands affected by social media through the analysis of stress alongside depression and anxiety. Using concepts from Social Comparison Theory in conjunction with Uses and Gratifications Theory this research demonstrates the impact of social media usage patterns and uses on mental health outcomes. This research design combines quantitative methodology to measure and analyze survey outcomes distributed to Pune's Gen Z demographic. It investigates how social media use patterns link with mental health variables through analysis that controls for differences between demographic groups including gender and picked social platforms. The research delivers important findinngs about how social media influences mental well-being as it enhances knowledge about psychological difficulties which Gen Z faces in their technology-driven world. The research recognizes the need to teach digital literacy and teaches balanced social media practices as well as mental health education to young people.

Keywords : Social Media, Gen Z, Mental Health, Digital Detox.

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