As social media and smartphone use continue to grow, concerns about their impact on mental health, especially among K-12 students, are receiving increased national and global attention. From lawsuits involving major tech companies to policy discussions about restricting teen access to social media, the conversation is shifting toward viewing digital platforms as a potential public health issue.
Jed Magen, D.O., M.S., chair of the Department of Psychiatry in the Michigan State University Colleges of Osteopathic and Human Medicine, explains the risks, benefits and practical strategies for maintaining a healthy relationship with technology during Mental Health Awareness Month in May.
Why is social media becoming such a major mental health concern?
Social media is not entirely harmful, but it presents both benefits and risks. On one hand, digital platforms can provide access to valuable information, support communities and social connections, especially for individuals who may struggle with in-person interactions or mobility challenges. When used thoughtfully, social media can be educational and help people build meaningful connections.
However, there are serious concerns on the other side. Some individuals can become immersed in harmful content, including messaging that reinforces depression, self-harm or unhealthy behaviors. Algorithms often filter content based on user behavior, meaning that repeated exposure to negative material can reinforce harmful beliefs or emotional states over time.
Because social media platforms and artificial intelligence systems tend to respond to user interests and engagement patterns, they can unintentionally amplify negative content or unhealthy thought patterns. This has led to growing concerns among mental health professionals and policymakers about the need for safeguards and responsible platform design.
Ultimately, social media is a mixed tool. It can be helpful or harmful depending on how it is used and monitored.
How has social media changed over the past decade?
Over the past decade, social media has shifted from a tool people used to actively search to find information to a system that actively delivers content tailored to individual behavior and preferences.
Today, algorithms and artificial intelligence shape what users see, often predicting interests and generating content automatically. While this can increase productivity and efficiency in areas like research, education and communication, it also creates risks when users rely on digital platforms without critically evaluating the information they receive.
When used responsibly, technology can save time and improve learning and productivity. However, without background knowledge or critical thinking, users may struggle to identify inaccuracies or misinformation, which can lead to confusion or poor decision-making.
The key difference today is that social media and digital platforms are no longer passive, they are interactive and designed to continuously engage users.
What impact does social media have on sleep, focus and academic performance?
Constant digital stimulation can affect sleep, concentration and overall cognitive performance, particularly among students.
Blue light from screens may interfere with melatonin production, making it harder to fall asleep, and the stimulating nature of social media can keep the brain engaged late into the night. As a result, mental health professionals often recommend limiting screen time before bed and using nighttime screen settings to reduce stimulation.
Social media can also interfere with studying and in-person interaction. Unlike television or traditional media, social media responds directly to users and continuously adapts content to keep them engaged. These platforms are intentionally designed to encourage scrolling and prolonged use, which can make it difficult for students to stay focused on academics or social interactions.
Students and younger users may be especially vulnerable because their ability to filter and regulate digital content is still developing.
What are the warning signs of unhealthy or compulsive social media use?
There are several indicators that social media use may be becoming unhealthy.
Warning signs include:
- Spending excessive amounts of time on social media
- Reduced in-person social interaction
- Declining academic or work performance
- Poor sleep habits
- Reduced physical activity
- Increased feelings of loneliness or isolation
When social media begins to replace real-world interactions or contributes to emotional distress, it may signal a need for boundaries and support.
Setting limits, such as restricting phone use during meals, keeping devices out of bedrooms at night and monitoring screen time, can help reduce negative impacts and encourage healthier habits.
What strategies can students use to build a healthier relationship with social media?
Students can take several practical steps to maintain balance while staying connected.
Setting time limits on apps, using phone timers and putting devices away during studying or sleep hours can help reduce overuse. Choosing reliable and trustworthy platforms and being mindful of how personal data is used can also improve digital awareness.
In addition, participating in extracurricular activities such as athletics, clubs or group-based programs encourages face-to-face interaction and social development, which are essential for mental well-being.
Open conversations between students, families and educators about responsible social media use are also important. Creating structured boundaries and encouraging real-world engagement can help students develop healthier habits over time.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, call 911, call or text the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 or use the resources listed here.
By Andrea Mackey
As social media and smartphone use continue to grow, concerns about their impact on mental health, especially among K-12 students, are receiving increased national and global attention. From lawsuits involving major tech companies to policy discussions about restricting teen access to social media, the conversation is shifting toward viewing digital platforms as a potential public health issue.
Jed Magen, D.O., M.S., chair of the Department of Psychiatry in the Michigan State University Colleges of Osteopathic and Human Medicine, explains the risks, benefits and practical strategies for maintaining a healthy relationship with technology during Mental Health Awareness Month in May.
Why is social media becoming such a major mental health concern?
Social media is not entirely harmful, but it presents both benefits and risks. On one hand, digital platforms can provide access to valuable information, support communities and social connections, especially for individuals who may struggle with in-person interactions or mobility challenges. When used thoughtfully, social media can be educational and help people build meaningful connections.
However, there are serious concerns on the other side. Some individuals can become immersed in harmful content, including messaging that reinforces depression, self-harm or unhealthy behaviors. Algorithms often filter content based on user behavior, meaning that repeated exposure to negative material can reinforce harmful beliefs or emotional states over time.
Because social media platforms and artificial intelligence systems tend to respond to user interests and engagement patterns, they can unintentionally amplify negative content or unhealthy thought patterns. This has led to growing concerns among mental health professionals and policymakers about the need for safeguards and responsible platform design.
Ultimately, social media is a mixed tool. It can be helpful or harmful depending on how it is used and monitored.
How has social media changed over the past decade?
Over the past decade, social media has shifted from a tool people used to actively search to find information to a system that actively delivers content tailored to individual behavior and preferences.
Today, algorithms and artificial intelligence shape what users see, often predicting interests and generating content automatically. While this can increase productivity and efficiency in areas like research, education and communication, it also creates risks when users rely on digital platforms without critically evaluating the information they receive.
When used responsibly, technology can save time and improve learning and productivity. However, without background knowledge or critical thinking, users may struggle to identify inaccuracies or misinformation, which can lead to confusion or poor decision-making.
The key difference today is that social media and digital platforms are no longer passive, they are interactive and designed to continuously engage users.
What impact does social media have on sleep, focus and academic performance?
Constant digital stimulation can affect sleep, concentration and overall cognitive performance, particularly among students.
Blue light from screens may interfere with melatonin production, making it harder to fall asleep, and the stimulating nature of social media can keep the brain engaged late into the night. As a result, mental health professionals often recommend limiting screen time before bed and using nighttime screen settings to reduce stimulation.
Social media can also interfere with studying and in-person interaction. Unlike television or traditional media, social media responds directly to users and continuously adapts content to keep them engaged. These platforms are intentionally designed to encourage scrolling and prolonged use, which can make it difficult for students to stay focused on academics or social interactions.
Students and younger users may be especially vulnerable because their ability to filter and regulate digital content is still developing.
What are the warning signs of unhealthy or compulsive social media use?
There are several indicators that social media use may be becoming unhealthy.
Warning signs include:
- Spending excessive amounts of time on social media
- Reduced in-person social interaction
- Declining academic or work performance
- Poor sleep habits
- Reduced physical activity
- Increased feelings of loneliness or isolation
When social media begins to replace real-world interactions or contributes to emotional distress, it may signal a need for boundaries and support.
Setting limits, such as restricting phone use during meals, keeping devices out of bedrooms at night and monitoring screen time, can help reduce negative impacts and encourage healthier habits.
What strategies can students use to build a healthier relationship with social media?
Students can take several practical steps to maintain balance while staying connected.
Setting time limits on apps, using phone timers and putting devices away during studying or sleep hours can help reduce overuse. Choosing reliable and trustworthy platforms and being mindful of how personal data is used can also improve digital awareness.
In addition, participating in extracurricular activities such as athletics, clubs or group-based programs encourages face-to-face interaction and social development, which are essential for mental well-being.
Open conversations between students, families and educators about responsible social media use are also important. Creating structured boundaries and encouraging real-world engagement can help students develop healthier habits over time.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, call 911, call or text the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 or use the resources listed here.
By Andrea Mackey