In the last decade, social media platforms have revolutionised the way people communicate. With billions of users worldwide, these platforms have become a relevant part of our daily lives. However, alongside their benefits, there is growing concern about the effects of social media on our mental health. In this article, we will explore the ways in which social media can affect us and discuss the findings of relevant studies. 

Social media have been demonstrated to have several positive effects on human well-being. One such effect is enhanced interpersonal connection. One study showed that active usage of social media websites (e.g. status updates, sharing links or sending private messages on Facebook) increases feelings of social connectedness and reduced loneliness [1]. These platforms facilitate the maintenance of social relationships, fostering a sense of belonging, support, and community.

Furthermore, social media contribute to the dissemination of information: they can provide an efficient means to stay up-to-date on recent news, events, and trends. They can also be used as channels for creative expression. On platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok, artists can showcase their work to a global audience: in this way, these platforms have given rise to a new generation of content creators, encouraging self-expression and personal branding.

However, one must also consider the other side of the coin. Studies have found that the use of social media leads to the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter involved in the brain’s reward system. Dopamine is associated with pleasure derived from activities such as eating, exercising or engaging in social activities. Social media trigger its release by providing feedback in the form of likes and comments. However, constant stimulation by dopamine can lead to addiction-related behaviour and, ultimately, negative effects on mental health [2]. 

Another way in which social media can affect the brain is through its impact on attention and cognitive processes. Scientific studies have shown that people who regularly use social media have a shorter attention span than those who do not. This is because social media encourage multitasking, and people often switch from one platform to another or browse social media platforms while performing other activities (e.g. watching TV or studying).  Multitasking can decrease productivity and increase stress levels, which can lead to anxiety, depression and, overall, affect psychological well-being [3]. 

Social media can also affect mental health. A questionnaire-based study conducted on 1787 young adults by the Royal Society for Public Health found that social media can lead to negative consequences on our minds, leading to anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders [4]. People who use social media are more likely to compare their lives with others, which can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem. This can be especially harmful to teenagers, who are still developing their sense of self. A study from 2018 found that exposure to social media was associated with lower body satisfaction and self-esteem in young women. Media have always presented idealized and unrealistic images of beauty and success and the issue is exacerbated by social media given their ease and daily access  [5].

Moreover, social media can also lead to the phenomenon known as FOMO, or the «Fear Of Missing Out». This is commonly associated with the fear of not being included in social gatherings, experiences, or trends. FOMO often manifests itself in the desire to stay constantly connected to social media in order not to miss anything significant. This fear can cause anxiety and stress, increasing the risk of mental health issues and impairing cognitive functions [6].

In conclusion, although social media can be beneficial for communication, increased connectedness, and greater access to information, it is important to be aware of their potential impact on dopamine levels, attention span, cognitive processes, self-esteem and self-worth. Nonetheless, several strategies can be adopted to mitigate the negative impact of social media on the brain such as setting limits on screen time, allocating specific periods for social media engagement, and practising digital detoxes to intentionally disconnect or take a break from social media. Just to cite an example of how limiting social media use can be beneficial for our mental health, a study from 2019 demonstrated that abstaining from social media use for one week leads to substantial improvement in well-being, life satisfaction, social comparison and self-esteem [8]. 

As is often the case, moderation is the virtue of life and one should find the right balance in the use of social media, making the most of its positive aspects while limiting its disadvantages.