EFFECTS OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON MENTAL HEALTH ON HIGHER SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS

Abstract

In the digital age, social media has become an integral part of daily life, particularly among adolescents and young adults. Higher secondary school students, who are at a critical stage of cognitive, emotional, and social development, are frequent users of social media platforms. These platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Snapchat, provide students with opportunities for social interaction, entertainment, and self-expression. However, the extensive use of social media has raised concerns about its impact on mental health, particularly in the context of adolescents. The effects of social media on mental health are multifaceted, with both positive and negative consequences. On one hand, social media allows students to stay connected with peers, share experiences, and access information, promoting a sense of belonging and support. It can serve as a platform for creativity, learning, and awareness, and even offer emotional support through online communities. On the other hand, excessive social media use has been linked to various mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and sleep disturbances. The constant exposure to idealized images, cyberbullying, and the pressure to maintain a perfect online persona can significantly affect students' self-worth and mental well-being. Social comparison, a common behavior fueled by social media, has been identified as one of the key factors contributing to negative mental health outcomes. Adolescents often compare their lives with the seemingly perfect lives of their peers, leading to feelings of inadequacy and isolation. Furthermore, the addictive nature of social media, coupled with the constant need for validation in the form of likes and comments, can exacerbate stress and anxiety among students. Given the widespread use of social media among higher secondary school students, it is crucial to understand its effects on their mental health. This research aims to explore the relationship between social media usage and mental health among students in higher secondary schools, identifying both the risks and benefits of social media engagement. By examining various factors such as the frequency of use, the type of content consumed, and the emotional responses to social media interactions, this study seeks to provide valuable insights into how social media influences students' mental well-being and offer recommendations for mitigating its negative effects.