Social media wellbeing concerns continue rising
New research shows growing concerns about social media wellbeing among young people. Experts say excessive scrolling can reduce happiness and emotional health. As a result, many researchers now urge healthier online habits.
The findings come from the World Happiness Report.
The report was published by the University of Oxford’s Wellbeing Research Centre. It found a strong link between heavy social media use and lower wellbeing. Researchers say limited use can still offer benefits. For example, social platforms help people stay connected.
However, spending too much time online may create emotional stress. Experts noticed stronger effects in Western countries. Young people in the United States, Canada, Australia, and the UK reported lower wellbeing. This decline happened during the same years social media rapidly expanded.
Young users face pressure online
Researchers believe platform design plays a major role. Many apps encourage endless engagement through notifications and scrolling. Therefore, users often spend more time online than planned.
Content creator Sydney Grows understands both sides of social media. She enjoys inspiring others through fitness and authenticity-focused content.
In addition, she values the opportunities social platforms provide. Still, negative comments remain difficult to ignore. One harsh message can outweigh many positive reactions. As a result, creators often develop emotional resilience over time. Experts say social media is now part of daily life.
Instead of banning platforms completely, they encourage balanced use. People should focus more on real conversations and offline experiences. Researchers also advise users to avoid unhealthy comparisons online. Seeing idealized lifestyles too often may damage confidence. Ultimately, experts say the goal should be making social media feel genuinely social again
