Perception, use of social media, and its impact on the mental health of Indian adolescents: A qualitative study

Core Tip

Core Tip: Mental illness is one of the health challenges that adolescents face these days, and it has grown worse after the Coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. Research on social media and regarding the metal health of young people has increased recently. Numerous studies have examined whether frequent use of social media is linked to issues such as anxiety, stress, depression, eating disorders, insomnia, frustration, feeling alone, and externalizing problems among adolescents. The pervasive influence of social media on adolescents’ lives is evident, with platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok playing a central role in daily interactions and self-expression. While social media offers numerous benefits, including connectivity and information sharing, excessive usage can have detrimental effects on mental health, particularly among adolescents. This study explores the intricate relationship between social media usage and adolescent mental health in India. The study employs a cross-sectional survey design to capture a snapshot of adolescent mental health and social media usage patterns. Data collection involved administering structured questionnaires and the analysis utilized quantitative methods, including descriptive statistics. Findings from the study aim to provide insights into the current state of adolescent mental health and inform strategies to promote positive wellbeing in this population. Additionally, the study underscores the need for further research to better understand the complex interplay between social media and adolescent mental health.