How Embracing Social Media Mindfully Can Lower Stress: Study Provides Insights
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Young people's mental health may depend on how they use social media, rather than how much time they spend using it, according to a new study by University of B.C. researchers.
The research published in Journal of Experimental Psychology: General, examined the effects of quitting social media versus using it more intentionally.
The results showed that users who thoughtfully managed their online interactions, as well as those who abstained from social media entirely, saw mental health benefits particularly in reducing symptoms of anxiety, depression and loneliness.
With social media use nearly universal among young adults, especially those ages 17-29, concerns over its impact on mental health have grown.
In the six-week study, 393 Canadian young adults with some mental health symptoms and concerns about social media’s impact on their mental health were split into three groups:
• a control group that continued their usual routines
• an abstinence group asked to stop using social media entirely
• a “tutorial” group that was coached in intentional usage
The tutorials guided participants on fostering meaningful online connections, limiting interactions that encouraged self-comparison, and carefully selecting who they followed.
Both the abstinence and tutorial groups reduced their social media use and experienced fewer social comparisons—a common trigger for anxiety and low self-esteem. While the tutorial group didn't cut back on social media as much as those who tried to abstain completely, they reported notable improvements in loneliness and fear of missing out.
Researchers used an approach with the tutorial group that emphasized quality over quantity in social media interactions. By muting or unfollowing accounts that triggered envy or negative self-comparisons and prioritizing close friendships, tutorial participants built a healthier online environment. Rather than passively scrolling, they were encouraged to actively engage with friends by commenting or sending direct messages—a behaviour that tends to deepen meaningful connections while helping users feel more socially supported.
Reference: Mikami, A. Y., Khalis, A., & Karasavva, V. (2024). Logging out or leaning in? Social media strategies for enhancing well-being.Journal of Experimental Psychology: General. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1037/xge0001668
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