Exploring the Relationship between Social Media Engagement and Psychological Health of Young Adults in Pakistan

Abstract

The pervasive integration of social media into the lives of young adults, particularly in rapidly digitalizing countries like Pakistan, has prompted significant concern regarding its impact on psychological well-being. This study aimed to examine the association between social media exposure and mental health outcomes among male and female university students in Lahore, Pakistan. Using a cross-sectional design, the study surveyed 415 students aged 18 to 26 using a structured questionnaire. Anxiety, loneliness, and depression were assessed using validated scales (GAD-7, UCLA Loneliness Scale, and PHQ-9). Correlation and multiple regression analyses revealed that greater social media exposure was a significant positive predictor of depression and anxiety, but not of loneliness after controlling for demographic variables. Gender was a significant factor, with female students reporting higher levels of anxiety, loneliness, and depression than their male counterparts. Age also emerged as a moderate but significant predictor of depression. These results provide further evidence that social media exposure is associated with internalizing disorders like depression and anxiety in this vulnerable population, while challenging the notion that it directly leads to perceived loneliness. The study highlights the importance of mental health interventions and digital literacy programs targeted at young adults, especially women, in the digital age.