Social Media-Related Factors Influencing Depression among Young Adults in Rajshahi City, Bangladesh
Keywords:
Social media, Mental health interventions, Depression, Young adults, Patient health questionnaire-9Abstract
In recent years, the proliferation of social media platforms has revolutionized communication and interaction patterns, particularly among the youth population. However, alongside its benefits, concerns have been raised about its potential negative effects on mental health. Social media has profoundly impacted mental health, especially among young adults, leading to heightened feelings of loneliness, inadequacy, and social comparison. This study examines social media's role in depression among young adults in Rajshahi City, Bangladesh. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 450 respondents in the study area. A pretested, semi-structured, self-administered questionnaire collected media-related variables, while the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) assessed depression status. Data analysis included frequency distribution, inter-item correlation matrix for PHQ-9, Chi-square test, and Cramer's V. The results revealed that 57.8% of the respondents had depression, with age and time spent on social media being positively associated. The percentage of depressed females (62.1%) was higher than that of males (55.2%). Additionally, depression status varied based on the social media platform used, the type of accounts followed, and the content consumed. These findings highlight that younger age and using platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest, as well as following accounts related to celebrities, gaming, humor, and animals, are linked to higher rates of depression. These findings underscore the complex relationship between social media engagement and depression, emphasizing the need for targeted mental health interventions, particularly among younger users and those engaging with specific content types. To mitigate social media’s negative impact, mental health resources and parental guidance are crucial. Social media platforms should include well-being features, and gender-specific interventions are needed, especially as females are more affected. Digital literacy programs should be implemented in schools, and parents should guide healthy online habits.
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