Insight into the Trends in Research on the Impact of Social Media on Adolescent Mental Health

This study investigates the impact of social media on adolescent mental health through a bibliometric analysis of literature from 2004 to 2024 in the web of science database. With internet usage among adolescents exceeding 87% and instant messaging rates reaching 84.1%, platforms such as Facebook and Instagram significantly affect their mental well-being. The study identifies “anxiety,” “depression,” and “adolescents” as central themes, demonstrating a strong correlation between high-frequency social media use and mental health issues. Adolescents, the most affected group, face significant risks from prolonged social media exposure. The United Kingdom leads study collaborations in this field. The findings highlight the complexity of social media’s impact on mental health, influenced by various factors ranging from childhood experiences to specific psychological issues. Emphasizing adolescent mental health, the study calls for future study to explore the long-term effects of social media use and develop effective intervention measures and policy recommendations. This scientific evidence aims to guide policymakers, educators, and parents in promoting the comprehensive development and well-being of adolescents, helping them navigate the digital age healthily and safely.