The relationship between social media and anxiety

Denis Fatuma

Department of Public Administration, Kampala International University Uganda

ABSTRACT

Social media usage has become ubiquitous, with platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter shaping how individuals interact, communicate, and perceive themselves and others. However, the relationship between social media and anxiety is complex and multifaceted. This paper provides an extensive review of the mechanisms linking social media to anxiety, including social comparison, fear of missing out (FOMO), cyberbullying, and sleep disturbances. Additionally, demographic differences in social media usage and anxiety outcomes, such as age, gender, and cultural background, are explored. The impact of different types of social media platforms, including visual vs. text-based platforms, on anxiety levels is examined. Despite the negative associations, social media also offers positive aspects, such as social support, access to mental health resources, and positive interactions that can reduce anxiety. Quantitative and qualitative research findings on social media usage and anxiety levels are reviewed, highlighting the bidirectional relationship between social media addiction and anxiety. Interventions and coping strategies, such as digital detox, mindfulness, and parental education, are discussed, along with the role of policy and regulation in managing the negative impacts of social media. Finally, future directions in research, including emerging trends in social media, technological advancements, and ethical considerations, are outlined to guide future studies and interventions aimed at promoting digital well-being.

Keywords:  Social media, anxiety, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, cyberbullying, demographics, fear of missing out (FOMO).

CITE AS: Denis Fatuma (2024). The relationship between social media and anxiety. RESEARCH INVENTION JOURNAL OF CURRENT ISSUES IN ARTS AND MANAGEMENT 3(2):102-107.