Social media usage and mental health outcomes among university students: a systematic literature review

Abstract

This systematic literature review examines the relationship between social media usage and mental health outcomes among university students, a group increasingly exposed to both the benefits and risks of digital engagement. The review synthesizes evidence from 52 peer-reviewed studies published between 2015 and 2025, retrieved from databases such as Wiley Online Library, ScienceDirect, PubMed, PubMed Central, MDPI, IEEE. Findings indicate that excessive social media use is predominantly associated with negative outcomes, including anxiety, depression, loneliness, sleep disturbances, and compulsive behaviours, with female students often reporting greater vulnerability. At the same time, social media usage at moderate levels enables social connectedness, peer-to-peer cooperative interaction, and accessibility of mental health materials, revealing the dual role of social media for the well-being of students. Cross- cultural variations further highlight how contextual factors shape usage patterns and psychological effects. Overall, the evidence reveals the complex and bidirectional nature of the social media–mental health relationship and emphasizes the need for balanced interventions. These include but do not limit digital literacy programs and institutional support systems, that will mitigate risks while enhancing positive outcomes for university students.