Pengaruh media sosial terhadap kesehatan mental mahasiswa di era digital

Abstract

The development of social media has significantly transformed students’ social interaction patterns. Social media is no longer merely a communication and entertainment platform but also a space for self-identity formation, social validation, and psychological pressure. This article aims to analyze the influence of social media usage intensity on college students’ mental health in the digital era through a literature review approach. The discussion focuses on the relationship between social media use and anxiety, overthinking, and self-esteem among students. The method employed is a literature study by examining various scientific articles, psychological journals, and relevant previous studies. The findings indicate that intensive social media use may increase social anxiety, encourage unhealthy social comparison, reduce concentration, and lower self-esteem. However, social media also offers positive potential as a medium for social support and relationship development when used wisely and in moderation. Factors such as duration of use, consumed content, and emotional regulation ability significantly influence the psychological impact of social media on students. Therefore, digital literacy strategies, social media usage control, and mental health strengthening are necessary to help students adapt healthily in digital life.