A STUDY ON HOW SOCIAL MEDIA AFFECTS MENTAL HEALTH OF THE PEOPLE IN COIMBATORE CITY.

The rapid rise of social media has transformed how people communicate and view themselves, raising concerns about its effects on mental health. This study explores the impact of social media on stress, anxiety, self-esteem, loneliness, and emotional attachment among 121 individuals aged 15–30 in Coimbatore city. Using a structured questionnaire and statistical analyses including Chi-square, correlation, regression, ANOVA, and rank analysis, the research found that social media usage differs across occupational groups. Loneliness showed a weak but positive link to increased usage, while emotional attachment emerged as the strongest factor influencing behaviour. Prolonged scrolling also contributed to mental fatigue. Additionally, differences were observed in experiences such as Fear of Missing Out, exposure to unrealistic standards, guilt over online time, and awareness of mental health effects. The study concludes that social media has a dual role—facilitating connection while potentially causing psychological strain—highlighting the need for responsible usage and digital self-awareness.