Social media use linked to increased depression risk in long-term study

A longitudinal study conducted by researchers at the University of Cincinnati and Northwestern University has identified a significant link between extensive social media use and an increased risk of depression. Analyzing data from over 183,000 adults aged 18 to 70 collected between 2014 and 2024, the research utilized machine learning to examine connections between digital habits and 31 health indicators.

The findings indicate that spending more than 150 minutes—or 2.5 hours—daily on social media platforms is associated with higher rates of self-reported depressive symptoms. Specifically, each additional hour of daily use was linked to an approximately 17% increase in depression risk. Notably, the study suggests that social media consumption may be a stronger predictor of depression than factors such as occupation, education level, ethnicity, or relationship status, and is more closely associated with depression than other screen activities like television or video games.

Researchers emphasize that the study does not prove social media directly causes depression, but rather highlights a complex correlation. The impact can vary significantly based on the nature of the interactions, such as whether a user is communicating with loved ones or being exposed to social comparison and algorithmic content loops. Factors like sleep quality and loneliness also play critical roles in how digital usage affects mental well-being.