Social media overuse linked to poor sleep and mental health issues

In today’s digital world, smartphones have become constant companions, keeping people connected to friends, celebrities, and global events. According to the Pew Research Center, 72% of Americans now use social media daily. While these platforms are powerful tools for communication and information sharing, research warns of serious downsides.

Overuse has been linked to depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and feelings of isolation. A 2015 Common Sense survey revealed that teenagers may spend up to nine hours a day online, with many admitting they worry about their screen time. A 2017 Canadian study found that students using social media for more than two hours daily were far more likely to rate their mental health as fair or poor.

Sleep disruption is another concern. A 2019 study connected heavy social media use to delayed and poor-quality sleep, which can lead to depression, memory loss, and other mental health problems. The risks don’t stop there  cyberbullying remains rampant. In a 2020 survey of over 6,000 young people aged 10–18, about half reported being victims of online harassment.

These platforms also make it easy to spread harmful rumors and abuse, leaving deep emotional scars. While social media has transformed how we connect, experts warn that excessive use can quietly erode both mental and emotional well-being.