Here are five ways that social media can cause psychological issues among young people.

1. Fear of Missing Out (FOMO): Social media platforms often showcase the highlight reels of people's lives, leading young people to compare themselves to others and experience FOMO. Seeing friends or influencers living seemingly perfect lives can create feelings of inadequacy, loneliness, and anxiety.
2. Cyberbullying and Online Harassment: Social media provides a platform for cyberbullying and online harassment, where young people can become victims of hurtful comments, rumors, or even threats. Constant exposure to negative interactions can significantly impact mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem.
3. Unrealistic Body Image Standards: Many social media platforms promote idealized and often unattainable beauty standards. Young people, particularly girls, can develop body image issues and engage in unhealthy behaviors to conform to these standards, such as extreme dieting, excessive exercise, or even developing eating disorders.
4. Information Overload and Comparison: The constant stream of information on social media can be overwhelming, leading to information overload and cognitive fatigue. Additionally, the ability to compare oneself to others' achievements, experiences, and lifestyles can breed feelings of inadequacy, leading to anxiety and self-doubt.
5. Sleep Disturbances: The use of social media, especially before bedtime, can disrupt sleep patterns. The blue light emitted by screens can interfere with the production of melatonin, a hormone essential for sleep. Poor sleep quality and quantity can contribute to increased anxiety, irritability, and impaired cognitive functioning in young people.