The Relationship between Social Media and Anxiety

Abstract

The goal of the study is to understand and analyze the relationship between social media and anxiety. Research done in previous years revolved around the concept of social media and overall mental health. Hence, this qualitative research particularly emphasizes on the relation between social media and anxiety. Social media platforms said to be helpful with regards to the work that can be easily done using all the information online, easy share of material and important documents, connecting with friends and family wherever and whenever. Although, there is a negative side of social media as well. Keeping the negative side and how it can lead to chances of having signs and symptoms of anxiety, following objectives were framed, first, to study the increased usage of social media’s effect on anxiety. Second, to find most used platform of social media. Finally, to study about the productive usage of social media. All the objectives were studied and addressed in detailed manner in the research. There are four hypothesis which were formulated in this study, 1) there will be a negative relationship between social media and anxiety, 2) there will be negative consequences of spending most of the time on social media, 3) humans interact more with each other on social media than in real life, 4) lastly, people compare themselves with others online. These hypotheses were put forward with the help of previous review of literature and collected data by interviewing 30 participants (15 female and 15 male participants). These participants were selected based on random sampling and aged between 18-29 years. For the analysis of the data, narrative research design was used. After analysis the results, it was concluded that there is a negative relationship between social media and anxiety along with many negative consequences. These consequences majorly consist of poor sleep quality, low self-esteem, symptoms of anxiety and in some cases depression as well. Also, another main finding was that people socialize more online and compare themselves with others’ life and experiences. Moreover, it is recommended that more studies should be done on the negative effects of using social media platforms to increase the awareness of mental health and its importance.