8 ways social media is rewiring student psychology

1. Increased Risk of Mental Health Issues: Heavy social media use is linked to an increased risk of depression, anxiety, loneliness, and even suicidal thoughts in students.

2. Fear of Missing Out (FOMO): Social media can fuel FOMO, making students feel like they are missing out on fun or better lives compared to their peers.

3. Body Image Issues and Low Self-Esteem: Social media often presents unrealistic and filtered portrayals of life and physical appearance.

4. Cyberbullying and Online Harassment: Social media platforms can be breeding grounds for cyberbullying, hurtful rumors, and online harassment.

6. Addiction and Reward-Seeking Behavior: The addictive nature of social media, driven by dopamine release, can create a reward cycle that is hard to break.

7. Distraction and Reduced Concentration: Frequent social media use can make it harder for students to concentrate and learn.

8. Sleep Disruption: Excessive social media use, especially close to bedtime, can disrupt sleep patterns. Sleep deprivation further impairs concentration, memory, and overall cognitive function.

9. Unrealistic Social Comparisons and Self-Absorption: Social media often functions as a "highlight reel," showcasing only the best aspects of others' lives.