ROLES OF SOCIAL MEDIA IN RAISING AWARENESS OF SLEEP PARALYSIS AMONG YOUNG ADULTS IN OLORUNDA LOCAL GOVERNMENT, OSUN STATE

ABSTRACT This study explores the role of social media in raising awareness of sleep paralysis among young adults in Olorunda Local Government Area, Osun State, Nigeria. Sleep paralysis, characterized by temporary immobility and often accompanied by hallucinations, remains poorly understood, particularly in regions where spiritual explanations prevail over medical knowledge. The research employed a descriptive survey design involving 325 respondents aged 18 to 35. The study aimed to assess their awareness, perceptions, and the extent to which social media serves as an information source on sleep paralysis. Findings revealed that while a majority of respondents were aware of sleep paralysis, detailed understanding especially of its hallucinatory symptoms was limited. Social media platforms such as WhatsApp, Instagram, and TikTok were widely used for health-related information, with over 70% acknowledging their influence. However, misinformation was also common, reinforcing cultural and supernatural beliefs. Despite this, many respondents recognized sleep paralysis as a medical condition and linked it to factors such as stress and irregular sleep, indicating a shift toward scientific understanding.