Social Media Usage and Its Impact on Mental Well-Being Among Young Adults

The rapid expansion of social media platforms has significantly transformed communication patterns, lifestyle behaviors, and social interactions among young adults. While social media offers opportunities for connectivity, self-expression, and information access, excessive usage has raised concerns regarding mental well-being. This study examines the impact of social media usage on mental well-being among young adults in urban India. Primary data were collected from 310 respondents aged 18–30 years using a structured questionnaire. The study analyzes the relationship between duration of social media use, online social comparison, emotional engagement, and mental well-being indicators such as stress, anxiety, self-esteem, and life satisfaction. The findings reveal that excessive and emotionally intense social media usage is associated with increased stress and anxiety, while balanced and purposeful usage contributes positively to social connectedness. The study highlights the need for awareness and self-regulation strategies to promote healthy digital behavior.