The Impact of Social Media Use on Mental Health: A Case Study of Secondary School Students in Kendrapara District, Odisha

Prof. (Dr.) B. C. Swain

Professor & Head, Department of Education

Maharana Pratap College

Mohania, Bihar

Abstract

In the digital age, social media has become a dominant force shaping the behaviours, thoughts, and emotional well-being of young individuals. While it offers numerous benefits such as connectivity, information sharing, and entertainment, the excessive and unregulated use of social media platforms has raised serious concerns regarding mental health, particularly among students. This study investigates the impact of social media on the mental health of secondary school students in Kendrapara District, Odisha, through a case study approach. A mixed-method research design was employed, involving both quantitative (structured surveys) and qualitative (semi-structured interviews) tools. A randomly selected sample of 50 students was surveyed to examine the frequency, platform preference, duration of use, and associated psychological effects, including anxiety, depression, poor self-esteem, and emotional fatigue.

The study found that prolonged exposure to social media, cyberbullying, fear of missing out (FOMO), and constant social comparison were strongly correlated with symptoms of mental distress. Many students reported difficulty focusing on academic tasks, disrupted sleep patterns, and feelings of social isolation despite being digitally connected. The findings highlight the urgent need for digital literacy programs, mental health awareness campaigns, and institutional policies that promote balanced digital engagement. The study also offers recommendations for parents, educators, and policymakers to build a safe and supportive digital environment for students.

By identifying key risk factors and proposing preventive strategies, this research contributes to the broader discourse on adolescent well-being in the digital era. The insights from this study will aid in developing more comprehensive interventions to mitigate the psychological challenges associated with social media use among secondary students.

Keywords: Social Media, Mental Health, Secondary Students, Cyberbullying, Digital Well-being