Social media can also disrupt sleep patterns, which is essential for maintaining good mental health. Exposure to screens and the constant notifications from social media can interfere with the body's natural sleep-wake cycle, leading to sleep deprivation and fatigue. A study published in the journal Sleep Health found that exposure to electronic devices before bedtime was associated with poorer sleep quality and increased symptoms of depression and anxiety (Cain & Gradisar, 2010).
Another issue is the cyberbullying and online harassment that many people experience on social media. A survey conducted by the Pew Research Center found that 59% of teens have experienced online harassment, with 43% experiencing severe forms of harassment, such as physical threats or sustained harassment (Hertz et al., 2019). This can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, and isolation.
Burke, M., Marr, J., & McGannon, K. (2010). The relationship between social network activity and depression in young adults. Journal of Psychology and Theology, 38(2), 131-143.