Study suggests healthier social media use reduces stress

A new study from the University of British Columbia suggests that improving mental health for young people may not require quitting social media. Instead, it emphasizes changing engagement habits to enhance quality and connection. The research involved 393 Canadians aged 17 to 29 who were concerned about social media's impact on their mental health. Participants who focused on mindful use reported feeling less lonely and experienced lower anxiety, while those who took a break saw improvements in anxiety and depression but not in loneliness. The study identified four strategies for healthier social media use: reflecting on positive and negative impacts, recognizing curated content, unfollowing negative accounts, and prioritizing active engagement. These methods aim to foster deeper connections and support mental well-being.