SOCIAL MEDIA USE AND MENTAL HEALTH AMONG YOUNG ADULTS: A NARRATIVE REVIEW OF PSYCHOLOGICAL RISKS AND BENEFITS

Abstract

Social media have become an integral part of everyday life, particularly among young adults, influencing patterns of communication, social interaction, and access to information. At the same time, mental health difficulties, including depression, anxiety, and psychological distress, represent important public health challenges in this population. This narrative review aimed to summarize and critically discuss current evidence regarding the relationship between social media use and mental health among young adults, with particular attention to psychological risks, potential benefits, and underlying mechanisms. Relevant literature was identified through searches of PubMed/MEDLINE and reference screening. The reviewed evidence indicates that the association between social media use and mental health is complex and depends on patterns of engagement, individual characteristics, motivations, and social context. Problematic social media use and passive consumption of online content are associated with increased depressive symptoms, anxiety, psychological distress, social comparison, and reduced well-being. Conversely, active engagement, online social support, and participation in digital communities may contribute to social connectedness and psychological benefits. Overall, social media should not be considered inherently harmful or beneficial; rather, its impact depends on how and why individuals engage with digital platforms. Further longitudinal and experimental research is needed to clarify causal mechanisms, identify individual differences in susceptibility, and support the development of evidence-based approaches promoting healthier patterns of digital engagement.