Do social media promote depression?

In 2025, more than 5.24 billion people worldwide use social media, representing nearly 64% of the population. In the US, 73% (253 million people) of total population are active on social media, spending an average of 2 hours and 9 minutes each day scrolling, liking or sharing. This omnipresence raises a real question: can these tools, which are supposed to bring us closer together, also undermine our mental health?

What does research say about the link between social media and depression?  

Recent research shows that heavy use of social media is often linked to increase in the symptoms of depression, especially among young people. Several studies confirm the link between social media and mental health. The Child Mind Institute has observed a clear correlation between time spent online and anxiety or depressive disorders. UCSF University followed nearly 12,000 pre-teens: the more their use increased (from 7 to 73 minutes per day over 3 years), the more depressive symptoms they developed (+35%). In the United Kingdom, research by JAMA Network also shows that teenagers who are already psychologically fragile spend more time on social media and suffer yet more from social comparisons.

However, correlation does not imply causation. Social media is not necessarily the direct cause. Family context, isolation, and personal vulnerabilities also play an important role.

Why and how can social media affect our mood?  

You use social networks to entertain yourself, stay informed, or keep in touch with others. But without you realizing it, your use of social media can also influence your mood. Here are three main mechanisms:

1/ Constant comparison

On social media, we mainly see the ‘best’ parts of other people's lives: traveling, success, beautifully edited photos. You may feel that your life is less successful. This comparison undermines self-confidence and can make you feel sad.

2/ Passive usage

Spending hours scrolling through your news feed without posting or commenting (known as ‘passive use’) is often bad for your morale. On the other hand, actively participating—commenting, exchanging, sharing—helps you feel more connected.

3/ The fear of missing out (FOMO) 

Social media gives the impression that something is always happening. As a result, you check it constantly, sometimes even at night. This fear of missing out (FOMO) creates stress, disrupts sleep and increases the feeling of loneliness.

In other words, social media does not cause depression in itself, but excessive or passive use can undermine your mental health.

Who is most vulnerable to negative effects of social media?  

Social networks do not affect everyone in the same way. Some people are more vulnerable to their negative effects:

• Teenagers: their developing brains are more sensitive to seeking approval (likes, comments) and social comparisons.
  
• People who are already psychologically fragile: a history of depression, anxiety or low self-esteem increases the risk of unhappiness.
  
• Extreme users: too little or too much time online is detrimental to well-being. Studies show that a balance is often found between 1 and 3 hours per day.

Can social media be useful for us?  

Social networks are not only a source of risk. When used consciously and in moderation, they can also be beneficial:

Meeting new people and getting support 

Social media can also provide comfort. Support groups (for chronic conditions, bereavement, mental health) offer a space for sharing and listening that helps reduce isolation.

Getting access to useful resources 

Social media platforms now disseminate a lot of reliable information: prevention campaigns, public testimonials, advice from psychologists and healthcare professionals. This helps to break down taboos and encourages people to seek help.

Expressing yourself freely and boosting creativity 

For young people, minorities, or isolated individuals, networks provide a space to express themselves, share, and strengthen their sense of belonging.

Protecting yourself from negative effects 

Simple actions can limit the negative impact of social media: hide toxic accounts, follow positive accounts, and prioritize authentic interactions. This can help you reduce stress and anxiety.

How to stay active on social media and protect your mental health?  

It is possible to stay active on social media while protecting your mental health, provided you adopt healthy habits and recognize the warning signs.

Notice the warning signs of bad user habits: 

• You spend more than 3 to 4 hours a day online, to the detriment of your sleep, work or relationships.
  
• You feel uncomfortable or irritable when you are not connected.
  
• You constantly wait for likes or messages to feel better.
  

If you recognize yourself in these signs, it may be time to re-evaluate your usage.

Adopt healthy social media habits: 

• Set limits: 1 to 3 hours per day, and stop using screens 1 hour before bedtime.
  
• Clean up your news feed: unsubscribe from or hide toxic content, and keep accounts that inspire you.
  
• Be active rather than passive: comment, post, and engage instead of endlessly scrolling.
  
• Vary your activities: make time for sports, reading or real-life encounters to balance your online and offline life.

Look for support if necessary 

If you feel that your discomfort persists, don't hesitate to talk to a loved one or a professional. There are things that can help you overcome your social media addiction:

• Digital tools (screen time limiters, apps or native features on Instagram/TikTok),
  
• Psychological support (cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness),
• Specialized resources such as addiction prevention support groups or specialized addiction centers,
  
• Collective support such as self-help forums, discussion groups or family rules can also play a key role in restoring a more balanced use of social media.

In a nutshell  

Social media is neither inherently good nor bad. Its impact depends on the way you use it. Excessive or passive use can be harmful, especially for young people or those who are already vulnerable. But when used in moderation, actively and consciously, it can be a source of support, information and creativity.

The key is to maintain a good usage balance: limit the time you spend online, choose positive content, prioritize authentic exchanges, and know when to disconnect when necessary.

What is your relationship with social media?

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Take care, and see you soon!