Authors : Payal Solanki; Dr. Neha Sheth

Volume/Issue : Volume 10 - 2025, Issue 11 - November

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/4rpvfpyu

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/3ydy8ywv

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/25nov1459

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Abstract : The paper explores the multifaceted association between social media use and the mental health of youth across emotional, behavioural, and cognitive dimensions. The review draws upon recent empirical studies to examine how factors such as sleep disturbance, depression, stress, anxiety, low self-esteem, and are influenced by social-media engagement. Findings reveal that excessive or unregulated use is unswervingly connected with adverse psychological outcomes, including emotional distress, dependency behaviours, and reduced cognitive performance. However, the review also emphasizes that balanced, mindful, and purposeful use of social media can foster positive effects such as self-expression, social belonging, and academic engagement. Mediating variables such as self-esteem, rumination, and sleep disturbance, along with moderating variables like gender, education, and time spent online, shape the intensity and direction of these outcomes. Overall, social media plays a dual role in youth mental health, providing helpful resources yet also creating psychological risks. The study concludes that promoting digital literacy, emotional resilience, and responsible usage can help transform social media into a tool for connection, learning, and well-being rather than a source of psychological strain.

Keywords : Social Media, Youth Mental Health, Depression, Anxiety, Self-Esteem, Sleep Disturbance, Digital Literacy, Emotional Well-Being, Behavioural Dependency, Cognitive Functioning.

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