Title: The Rise of Social Media and Its Impact on Mental Health
Written by Faraz Parvez (Pen name of Professor Dr. Arshad Afzal)
Former Faculty Member, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, KSA
Introduction to the Essay Series
Dear Readers,
Welcome to a new academic initiative on farazparvez1.blogspot.com, where we begin a fresh series exploring different types of essays—their structure, significance, and writing techniques. Every now and then, we’ll delve into one type of essay with a relevant topic, offering you a model of how to write powerfully and persuasively. Today, we begin with a Cause and Effect Essay—a genre that investigates reasons and outcomes of a situation, trend, or issue.
The Rise of Social Media and Its Impact on Mental Health
In the digital age, few innovations have reshaped human behavior as profoundly as social media. Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter) have revolutionized communication, democratized information, and redefined identity. However, behind the glittering screens lies a troubling reality—the correlation between excessive social media usage and deteriorating mental health.
Causes of the Phenomenon
One of the primary causes of this link is constant comparison. Social media creates curated realities—highlight reels of people’s lives that can make viewers feel inadequate. When a user sees endless photos of luxury, perfect bodies, and happy moments, they may begin to question their own self-worth. The result? A rise in depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem, especially among teens and young adults.
Another cause is addictive design. Social media platforms are engineered to keep users hooked—dopamine-triggering likes, endless scrolls, and algorithmic engagement traps are not accidental. Overuse, in turn, disrupts sleep patterns, focus, and real-world relationships.
Effects on Mental Health
The effects of this digital overstimulation are visible globally. Research indicates a surge in body image disorders, FOMO (Fear of Missing Out), and online bullying. Many users, even subconsciously, feel emotionally drained, lonely, and insecure after prolonged screen time. Paradoxically, while social media was meant to connect people, it often leads to social isolation.
Furthermore, overconsumption can lead to impaired cognitive health. The brain, overwhelmed by fleeting content, loses its ability to focus deeply, think critically, and even feel empathy.
Conclusion
While social media brings immense benefits—from activism to education—it also brings undeniable psychological costs. The solution lies not in abandoning it, but in digital mindfulness. Balanced usage, real-world interaction, and periodic detoxes can help mitigate its adverse effects.
As we continue our journey through essay types on this blog, stay tuned for our next post in the series. Let’s not just write essays—let’s master them.
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Faraz Parvez, bringing you insight with intellect, one post at a time.
