The Relationship Between Social Media and Mental Health Among University Students

Abstract

This study examines the potential connection between social media activity and various mental health indicators among university students, including anxiety, depression, emotional and behavioral stability, positive mood, relational bonds, and contentment with life. A cohort of 200 students aged 18 to 27 participated, with data gathered through the Social Media Engagement Questionnaire (SMEQ) and specific subscales of the Mental Health Inventory (MHI-38). After addressing incomplete responses, Pearson correlation analysis on 168 participants revealed no notable statistical associations between SMEQ scores and MHI-38 measures: anxiety (r = 0.136, p = 0.079), depression (r = 0.052, p = 0.503), loss of control (r = 0.096, p = 0.214), positive mood (r = -0.016, p = 0.841), relational ties (r = -0.094, p = 0.223), and life contentment (r = -0.019, p = 0.809). Investigations into self-esteem and social comparison as mediators showed no significant influence, likely due to the absence of direct correlations. These outcomes indicate that, based on this study’s metrics, social media use may not significantly affect the mental health of these students, prompting further research into personal and environmental factors.