Youth Mental Health Hit by Excessive Social Media Use

The increasing digital engagement of Bangladesh’s young generation is emerging as a double-edged sword—boosting connectivity and creativity on one hand, while fuelling addiction, anxiety, and a steady decline in real-life social interaction, academic performance, and mental well-being on the other.

With over 45 million active users—most under the age of 30—platforms like Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube have deeply embedded themselves in youth culture. However, psychologists warn that excessive and unsupervised use is contributing to rising cases of depression, low self-esteem, disrupted sleep patterns, and weakened academic focus.

A study by the Bangladesh Institute of ICT in Development (BIID) shows that teenagers and young adults spend between 5 to 8 hours daily on social media—far surpassing global health recommendations. Many admit to feeling anxious and restless when disconnected from their phones.

The impact is alarming. A nationwide study by the Anchal Foundation, involving 1,773 students, found that nearly 86% believe internet overuse significantly contributes to mental health issues. Of them, more than one in four blamed digital exposure as the primary cause of their psychological stress.

Over 59% of students reported that their academic habits have been disrupted by constant social media use, with many withdrawing from face-to-face interactions and exhibiting signs of isolation.

“The pressure to stay online, maintain a perfect image, and respond instantly is pushing students toward burnout,” said Sadia Mahjabeen, a psychologist who works with university students in Dhaka. “Screen-induced stress and anxiety are steadily increasing.”

A separate UNICEF Bangladesh poll via its U-Report platform, involving 29,000 young respondents, echoed similar concerns. Two-thirds cited misinformation and fake news as leading sources of online stress. Around 14% pointed to cyberbullying and negative comments, while another 14% were distressed by harmful or upsetting content.

More than half of the respondents (52%) supported stricter regulations to curb hate speech and online harassment.

Experts say that short-form video platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts promote instant gratification, reduce attention spans, and discourage critical thinking and real-world interaction.

“Social media isn’t inherently dangerous—it’s the unregulated, excessive, and mindless usage that turns it into a threat,” said Afsana Kabir, a digital rights researcher. “We must teach our youth to use it as a tool, not fall into its trap.”

Educational institutions are gradually responding with digital literacy and screen-time awareness programmes. But experts say a national-level strategy is urgently needed to address the growing crisis.

Although social media gives young people platforms to express themselves, the constant pressure to curate perfect lives, chase likes, and maintain a digital presence has led to toxic comparisons, cyberbullying, and behavioural addiction.

“Young users are forming their identities based on filtered realities, not real experiences,” said Dr Tanima Rahman, a Dhaka-based child psychologist.

Teachers in Dhaka and Chattogram have noted declining attention spans and increasing classroom distractions linked to smartphone use. Parents also report growing detachment within families and a lack of meaningful communication with their children.

Exposure to misinformation and provocative short-form content is not only distorting worldviews but also, in some urban cases, encouraging gang culture, harassment, and early exposure to adult material.

Experts are calling for a nationwide digital literacy campaign targeting students, parents, and educators. There is also demand for tighter data regulation, age-appropriate content filters, and screen-time monitoring tools.

“We need to start a national conversation on the long-term effects of social media on mental health, productivity, and social values,” said Kabir.

While social media remains a powerful tool for communication and creativity, its unchecked influence risks long-term societal consequences. Balancing online activity with real-life interaction, fostering healthy screen habits, and prioritising youth mental health must now become urgent national priorities.