Module 3: Social Media and Mental Health

Essential Question

Does social media help or harm mental health?

The Answer: It Depends

Research suggests that social media can produce both benefits and risks.

Potential Benefits:

  • Social support
  • Community building
  • Identity exploration
  • Access to information

Potential Risks:

  • Anxiety
  • Depression symptoms
  • Loneliness
  • Cyberbullying
  • Sleep disruption

Activity: Myth or Fact?

Determine whether the following statements are supported by research. Find specific sources that prove or disprove the claim.

  1. Social media is always harmful.
  2. More screen time automatically means worse mental health.
  3. Online communities can improve well being.

TODO: Interactive quiz

Activity: Case Study

Read the following learner profile.

TODO: Insert case study

Analyze:

  • Potential benefits
  • Potential risks
  • Protective factors
  • Recommendations

Key Takeaways

  • Effects vary depending on how social media is used.
  • Active participation is often healthier than passive scrolling.
  • Context matters more than screen time alone.