Effects of Social Media on Mental Health

Social media is deeply embedded in daily life across all age groups in the UK. From maintaining relationships to accessing news and professional updates, digital platforms have become essential tools. However, as social media evolves, its effects on mental health are increasingly under scrutiny.

This article explores the ongoing conversation about social media’s impact on mental health, addressing long-standing concerns, recent developments, and practical advice for navigating the digital world more mindfully.

Social Media Use

Social media usage in the UK has reached 54.8 million people as of early 2025, equating to approximately 79% of the population. However, many users report feeling digitally fatigued or overwhelmed. For example, Deloitte’s Digital Consumer Trends 2025 found that 50% of respondents reported turning off notifications for at least one app, while 18% said they had implemented screen time limits.

Prolonged exposure to social media can significantly impact mental wellbeing, particularly in areas such as sleep, self-esteem, and emotional regulation. According to Mind, users are often exposed to curated or idealised content, because people often choose to share only the most polished or positive aspects of their lives. This selective presentation can lead to constant comparisons, fueling feelings of inadequacy and low self-worth.

The constant flow of notifications and negative news cycles can heighten anxiety and emotional fatigue, a pattern often described as “doomscrolling.” Moreover, using digital devices late into the night disrupts sleep patterns, which in turn affects emotional resilience and overall mood. Mind also highlights the risk of compulsive use, advising users to take deliberate breaks, set screen time limits, and engage in offline activities to restore balance and improve psychological wellbeing.

Key Effects of Social Media on Mental Health

Several issues remain central to discussions about social media and mental health:

  • Anxiety and Depression: Excessive social media use has been linked to heightened anxiety and depression, especially when it interferes with sleep or real-world social interaction.

  • Body Image and Self-Perception: Platforms like Instagram and TikTok are criticised for promoting unrealistic beauty standards, which can negatively affect self-image across all ages.

  • Addiction and Compulsive Use: Social media platforms are designed with engagement features that encourage prolonged use, potentially leading to compulsive behaviours and attention fatigue.

  • Cyberbullying and Online Harassment: Online harassment remains a serious mental health risk, particularly for young people, women, and marginalised groups.

  • Sleep Disruption: Frequent night-time social media use is associated with poor sleep quality, which in turn contributes to emotional distress and burnout. 

Emerging Issues in the Digital Mental Health Landscape

The mental health conversation is evolving to include newer concerns related to technological advances:

  • The spread of AI-generated images and videos raises questions about reality, identity, and self-worth, as users may struggle to differentiate authentic content from fabricated material. This has been highlighted in public discourse and in documentaries like The Social Dilemma.

  • Increasingly, content creators report high levels of stress and burnout due to the demands of maintaining visibility and engagement online.

  • A growing number of users are adopting digital detoxes and setting boundaries to protect their mental health and reduce screen time. Resources on digital minimalism are increasingly being promoted by mental health charities.

  • Health organisations and governments are developing guidelines around screen time, online safety, and platform accountability.

The Role of Social Media in Public Discourse

Social media also serves as a platform for mental health awareness. Charities, professionals, and influencers use these channels to share resources, advice, and personal experiences. Podcasts and documentaries continue to highlight the complex relationship between social media and mental health, encouraging more informed and mindful use. 

Practical Guidance for Using Social Media Mindfully

Regardless of age or background, there are effective strategies to maintain a healthier relationship with social media:

  • Use built-in screen time management tools available on most devices to monitor and limit usage.

  • Curate your social media feeds by following content that adds value and unfollowing accounts that cause stress or negativity.

  • Set clear digital boundaries, such as disabling non-essential notifications outside of work or personal time.

  • Take regular breaks or digital detoxes to recharge and reduce mental fatigue.

  • Engage in open conversations about social media use and its impact on wellbeing within your family, workplace, or social circles.

  • Encourage safe and respectful online behaviour and educate younger or less experienced users about responsible social media habits.

  • Enhance digital skills and awareness to navigate online spaces confidently and avoid scams or misinformation.

  • Use social media intentionally to foster connection and support rather than passive consumption or comparison.

Social media is a powerful and pervasive tool in modern life, offering both benefits and challenges. Recognising the risks and adopting mindful usage habits can help users of all ages protect their mental health. As the conversation around the effects of social media on mental health advances, it is vital to equip individuals with the knowledge and resources to engage with social media in a balanced and healthy way.

Further Support

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, the following resources are available:

Social Media, Mental Health, Depression, Anxiety, Digital, Screen Time, Online, Effects of Social Media on Mental Health, Facebook, Instagram, Tik Tok

Published on by Nakita Jassett.