IMPACT OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON THE MENTAL HEALTH OF STUDENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF BENIN

This study investigates the impact of social media usage on the mental health of students at the University of Benin. With the increasing reliance on social media platforms such as WhatsApp, TikTok, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter), concerns have emerged regarding their potential effects on students’ psychological and emotional well-being. The research employed a quantitative survey method, using a structured questionnaire administered to a sample of 356 students across various faculties and academic levels. The data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentages, and weighted mean. Findings revealed that a significant number of students engage with social media daily, with many spending over three hours per day on various platforms. While some students reported positive outcomes such as improved mood and emotional connection, a considerable proportion experienced negative effects, including anxiety, sleep disturbances, sadness, and low self-esteem. The study also identified a relationship between excessive social media use and mental health issues like depression and psychological stress. To mitigate these challenges, students reported employing coping strategies such as setting app limits, taking breaks from social media, and talking to someone about their mental state. The research concludes that although social media plays a vital role in modern communication and student life, excessive and unregulated use can pose serious mental health risks. Therefore, promoting healthy digital habits and mental health awareness among university students is essential