THE IMPACT OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON YOUNG PEOPLE'S MENTAL HEALTH

Social media has become an integral part of young people’s daily lives, influencing their communication, self-expression, social relationships, and emotional development. The widespread use of social networking platforms has raised important questions about their relationship with psychological well-being. This article examines the impact of social media use on young people’s mental health, focusing on anxiety, depressive symptoms, self-esteem, social comparison, cyberbullying, and sleep quality. The study is based on a theoretical review of existing scientific literature and research findings. Previous reviews indicate that the relationship between social media use and mental health is complex and varies according to individual characteristics, patterns of engagement, and the type of content encountered online (Liu et al., 2024; Sala et al., 2024). Social media may provide opportunities for social support, communication, and self-expression, but problematic use and negative online experiences may also be associated with psychological difficulties (American Psychological Association [APA], 2023; Saleem et al., 2024). The article emphasizes the importance of digital literacy, healthy online habits, supportive family relationships, and accessible psychological services. It concludes that social media should not be considered universally harmful or beneficial; rather, its psychological effects should be evaluated in relation to individual needs, social circumstances, and patterns of use.