Study Finds Teens with Anxiety or Depression Spend More Time on Social Media, Experience Greater Emotional Impact

Study Finds Teens with Anxiety or Depression Spend More Time on Social Media, Experience Greater Emotional Impact
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A new study led by researchers at the University of Cambridge reveals that teenagers diagnosed with anxiety or depression spend about 50 minutes more daily on social media compared to their peers without mood disorders, Earth.com reported.

The research, published in Nature Human Behaviour, analyzed data from over 3,300 adolescents using clinical diagnostic interviews rather than symptom checklists, providing a more precise understanding of social media’s impact on youth mental health.

The study found that teens with internalizing conditions such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD are twice as likely to engage in social comparisons online, which can negatively affect their self-esteem. Nearly half of these teens reported judging themselves against others on social platforms, compared to 24% of teens without such diagnoses. Despite spending more time building online networks, they expressed lower satisfaction with their digital friendships, often experiencing feelings of rejection and loneliness.

Additionally, about 25% of teens with mood disorders reported mood swings linked to social media feedback, such as likes and comments, and were more prone to losing track of time online. In contrast, teens with externalizing disorders like ADHD showed increased usage but fewer negative emotional effects.

Experts suggest targeted guidance addressing comparison habits and emotional responses to social media may better support vulnerable teens than general screen-time limits.