New research from the University of the Western Cape (UWC) has found that heavier reliance on social media among students is associated with poorer mental health outcomes, including higher levels of anxiety, depression and symptoms consistent with post‑traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Key findings and implications
The study, led by researchers at UWC, reports a direct association between the degree to which students integrate social media into their daily lives and indicators of smartphone addiction. That greater integration was in turn associated with higher reported symptoms of anxiety, depression and PTSD.
Most participants in the research were women aged 21 and 22. While the majority said social media had no measurable effect on feelings of hopelessness, the study found clear links with increased anxiety, depression and PTSD symptoms.
“The concern arises when their use becomes difficult to control or begins to interfere with sleep, studies, relationships and emotional well‑being,”
This observation was made by co‑author Anita Padmanabhanunni, who also suggested that exposure to distressing content online and reminders of past traumatic experiences may contribute to the emergence or worsening of PTSD symptoms among users.
What the results mean for universities and student support
Padmanabhanunni said the findings have important implications for higher education institutions seeking to support student mental health. The research suggests that interventions should not simply demonise social media but focus on reducing problematic or excessive use that interferes with daily functioning.
Practical measures universities may consider include:
- screening for problematic social media use during student wellness assessments;
- providing psychoeducation about healthy online habits and sleep hygiene;
- expanding access to counselling and trauma‑informed care for students exposed to distressing online content;
- integrating digital wellbeing into orientation and ongoing student mental health programmes.
Data at a glance
The study linked three main mental health indicators to increased social media reliance:
| Indicator | Association with higher social media reliance |
|---|---|
| Smartphone addiction | Directly associated |
| Anxiety | Higher levels reported |
| Depression | Higher levels reported |
| PTSD symptoms | Higher levels, possibly linked to exposure to distressing content |
Context and cautions
Researchers emphasise that social media use in itself is not inherently harmful. Problems arise when use is excessive, difficult to control, or displaces sleep, study time and real‑world relationships. The pattern described in the UWC study aligns with international literature that distinguishes between adaptive, social uses of digital platforms and maladaptive or compulsive use that impairs functioning.
The study sample was composed largely of young women in their early twenties, and the authors note that findings may not generalise to all student populations. Nevertheless, the associations observed point to an area of concern for student mental health services and public health policymakers.
For students, family members and campus staff, the research underscores the need for balanced messaging: encourage constructive, moderated use of digital platforms while remaining alert for signs that online behaviour is harming wellbeing.
If you or someone you know is experiencing anxiety, depression or symptoms of trauma, consult a health professional, campus counselling service or local clinic rather than relying on self‑diagnosis or internet sources.
Notes: The study was reported by UWC researchers, with Anita Padmanabhanunni cited as a co‑author and commentator on the findings.
