[ PAPER ID: 57364 ] EFFECTS OF SOCIAL MEDIA USAGE ON THE MENTAL HEALTH OF SCHOOL STUDENTS: A REVIEW-BASED STUDY: ARTICLE INFO: Date of Submission: Oct 21, 2025, Revised: Nov 18, 2025, Accepted: Nov 29, 2025, DOI URL: https://doi.org/10.56815/ijmrr.v4i4.2025.22-38, HOW TO CITE: Choudhury, Babita (2025). Effects of Social Media usage on the Mental Health of School Students: a Review-Based Study. International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research & Reviews, 4(4), 22-38

Dr. Babita Choudhury

Authors

Dr. Babita Choudhury Professor & Supervisor, Department of Education, Srimanta Sankaradeva Sangha Complex, Haladhar Bhuyan Path, Kalongpar, Morikolong, Nagaon, Assam-782001, India.

Abstract

The pervasive engagement of school students with social media platforms has increasingly captured the attention of researchers, educators, and mental health professionals alike. This review-based article synthesizes findings from existing academic literature to delineate the multifaceted impact of social media on the psychological well-being of school-aged children and adolescents. Consistent findings indicate both advantageous and detrimental effects, with excessive usage frequently correlating with elevated levels of anxiety, stress, diminished self-esteem, experiences of cyberbullying, and disruptions to sleep patterns. Conversely, judicious and responsible social media use can facilitate effective communication, enhance learning opportunities, and support emotional expression. The review strongly emphasizes the critical importance of digital literacy, active parental involvement, and the implementation of proactive strategies to cultivate healthy online behaviors among students.