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In recent years, college students have experienced a decline in their mental health due to social media overconsumption. When college students enter university, they develop a fear of missing out, which results in them constantly using social media.
Why does it have anything to do with addiction?
The more students spend on social media, the more they develop bad habits, depression, anxiety, and worsen their mental health.
Mental health is the emotional, social, and psychological well-being of an individual. It affects how someone thinks, feels, and acts. Many people struggle with addiction and are unable to break free from their drug use or behavior, even though the behavior is physically or psychologically harmful.
When you have poor mental health, you experience anxiety, irritability, changes in your sleep schedule, loss of appetite, and mood changes. Similarly, signs of addiction consist of being constantly on the phone, having little social interaction, being aggressive or agitated when you can’t answer the phone, and constantly thinking about social media.
College students use social media apps every day, especially TikTok and Instagram. According to Business Insider, “nearly half of Gen Z use Instagram and his TikTok for searches instead of Google.” This highlights that young people are always on social media, and they use it more than Google.
To evaluate the results of these experiments, researchers utilized available surveys and conducted focus groups. The study collected data from a selected group of respondents in order to analyze and draw conclusions. A focus group was then organized in which a small number of participants participated and discussed their views in a guided conversation.
After analyzing the results, they concluded that more than 50% of college students check social media after waking up. Secondly, more than 50% of the participants can only live for a few hours without social media.
Focus group results showed that social media has an impact on college students’ mental health. Athletes were found to suffer from poorer mental health than the general student population due to NIL (name, image, likeness) contracts, sponsorships, and endorsements. Additionally, focus groups and survey results showed that college students who rely heavily on social media tend to postpone and ignore social activities.
What are some helpful recommendations for college students?
To improve the mental health of college students, universities need to hold more “mental health days.” Including activities like game nights or yoga sessions in your schedule can distract your students from social media, boost their mood, and encourage social interaction.
College students use social media so much that their mental health is neglected. Incorporating these activities will help you express positive emotions. Students have time away from their phones, which increases confidence, builds relationships, and establishes a friendly environment. Social media is taking a toll on college students’ mental health, but these efforts can help foster a positive atmosphere.
