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Social media has become an indispensable part of our lives. It is a source of information, entertainment and helps us stay connected. However, an overdose of it can trigger anxiety, depression and feelings of isolation.

A study conducted on American college goers says that regular use of social media has caused a negative impact on mental health. Out of 4.3 lakh respondents, it was found that the introduction of Facebook led to 9 per cent increase in depression and 12 per cent rise in anxiety disorders.

Psychologists believe that excessive use of social media can trigger feelings of envy and dissatisfaction. This is because people just share the ‘happy’ moments of their lives and not the low points.

Social media has the power to impact mental health. The US survey further revealed that the introduction of Facebook led to a 23 per cent increase in academic impairments among students.

Experts say that though social media and suicide cannot be linked directly, but platforms like Facebook & Twitter provide easy access to suicidal information. A 2012 Lancet report notes that India has one of the world's highest suicide rates for youth aged 15 to 29.

Social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter exaggerate and show that others are living a better life. This further impacts self-esteem and creates anxiety.

Did you know that scrolling on social media is also a type of addiction? Experts say that users feel compelled to pick up their phone every few minutes to check for updates and even respond to messages and calls while driving or working.

Human beings are social creatures and need face-to-face contact for mental wellbeing. But, due to social media, people now prioritise virtual interactions over in-person relationships, which can result in anxiety and depression.

According to a study conducted at the University of Pennsylvania, high usage of Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat increases feelings of loneliness. Therefore, reducing social media usage will not only make you feel less lonely but also improve your health.