Influence of Social Media Addiction on Mental Health of Undergraduates in Lagos State

Abstract

Social media has become an integral part of undergraduate life, providing opportunities for communication, learning, networking, and entertainment. However, the excessive and uncontrolled use of social networking platforms has raised concerns about social media addiction and its effects on students’ mental health. In Lagos State, Nigeria’s economic and technological hub, undergraduates are among the most active users of social media due to widespread smartphone ownership and internet accessibility. This paper examines the influence of social media addiction on the mental health of undergraduates in Lagos State. Drawing from empirical studies, theoretical perspectives, and contemporary literature, the study explores the relationship between social media addiction and psychological outcomes such as anxiety, depression, stress, loneliness, low self-esteem, sleep disturbances, and academic pressure. The paper concludes that while social media offers educational and social benefits, excessive usage significantly contributes to negative mental health outcomes among undergraduates. Recommendations are provided for students, educational institutions, parents, mental health professionals, and policymakers to promote healthier digital habits and improve psychological well-being.

Social media addiction, mental health, undergraduates, Lagos State, anxiety, depression, social networking sites.

1. Introduction

The rapid advancement of digital technology has transformed communication globally. Social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X (formerly Twitter), Snapchat, WhatsApp, and YouTube have become essential components of everyday life. These platforms enable users to communicate, share information, express opinions, and build social networks regardless of geographical boundaries.

Among university students, social media usage is particularly prevalent because it facilitates academic collaboration, professional networking, entertainment, and social interaction. However, excessive engagement with these platforms has led to the emergence of social media addiction, a behavioral condition characterized by compulsive social media use despite negative consequences.

Lagos State represents one of the most technologically advanced regions in Nigeria. As the commercial capital of the country, it hosts numerous public and private tertiary institutions whose students rely heavily on digital communication. While social media enhances connectivity and access to information, concerns have emerged regarding its impact on students’ mental health.

Recent evidence indicates that problematic social media use is associated with anxiety, depression, loneliness, fear of missing out (FoMO), stress, poor sleep quality, and reduced self-esteem among students. A meta-analysis involving over 26,000 students found positive correlations between social media addiction and anxiety, depression, loneliness, and FoMO, while showing a negative association with self-esteem. 1 2

This paper investigates the influence of social media addiction on the mental health of undergraduates in Lagos State by examining patterns of use, causes of addiction, psychological consequences, and possible interventions.

2. Conceptual Clarification

2.1 Social Media

Social media refers to internet-based platforms that enable users to create, share, exchange, and interact with content in virtual communities. Examples include:

Facebook
Instagram
TikTok
WhatsApp
X (Twitter)
YouTube
LinkedIn
Snapchat

These platforms facilitate communication, information sharing, self-expression, and social interaction.

2.2 Social Media Addiction

Social media addiction refers to excessive and compulsive engagement with social networking platforms that interferes with daily functioning. Addiction-like symptoms include:

Preoccupation with social media
Loss of control over usage time
Withdrawal symptoms when unable to access platforms
Neglect of academic, social, or personal responsibilities
Continued usage despite negative consequences

The World Health Organization’s European regional report describes problematic social media use as involving inability to control usage, withdrawal symptoms, neglect of other activities, and negative consequences resulting from excessive use. 3

2.3 Mental Health

Mental health refers to a person’s emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It influences how individuals think, feel, behave, make decisions, and cope with stress. Good mental health enables effective functioning in academic, social, and personal domains.

3. Literature Review

3.1 Introduction

The relationship between social media addiction and mental health has attracted increasing scholarly attention due to the rapid growth of digital communication technologies. University students constitute one of the most active groups of social media users, making them particularly vulnerable to the psychological effects of excessive online engagement. Researchers across different countries, including Nigeria, have investigated how addictive patterns of social media use affect mental well-being, academic performance, interpersonal relationships, and overall quality of life.

This review examines existing literature on social media addiction and mental health, with emphasis on undergraduate students and the Nigerian context.

3.2 Concept of Social Media Addiction

Social media addiction is a form of behavioral addiction characterized by excessive concern about social media platforms, an uncontrollable urge to use them, and persistent use despite adverse consequences. Researchers have identified symptoms similar to other forms of addiction, including tolerance, withdrawal, mood modification, conflict, and relapse.

According to the World Health Organization report on Teens, Screens and Mental Health, problematic social media use involves difficulty controlling usage, withdrawal symptoms when access is restricted, neglect of other activities, and negative consequences in daily life. The report further notes that problematic social media behavior has become increasingly common among young people and is associated with reduced mental and social well-being. 1

Similarly, scholars argue that social media platforms are intentionally designed to maximize user engagement through notifications, algorithmic recommendations, and reward mechanisms, thereby increasing the likelihood of compulsive use.

3.3 Social Media Usage Among University Students

University students are among the highest consumers of social media worldwide. Social media platforms provide opportunities for communication, entertainment, collaboration, information sharing, and academic networking.

A study reviewed in A Scoping Review of the Use and Determinants of Social Media Among College Students found that social media use is widespread among college students and is influenced by factors such as peer interaction, fear of missing out (FoMO), emotional needs, and entertainment preferences. The review further reported that excessive social media use was consistently associated with adverse mental health outcomes, including anxiety, depression, stress, and emotional dysregulation. 2

Within Nigerian universities, the increasing availability of smartphones and internet services has further accelerated social media usage among students. Consequently, concerns have emerged regarding excessive use and its potential consequences on students’ mental health.

3.4 Social Media Addiction and Anxiety

Anxiety remains one of the most commonly reported psychological outcomes of social media addiction. Frequent exposure to online interactions, social expectations, cyberbullying, and the pressure to maintain a positive online image can increase anxiety levels among students.

A meta-analysis titled Correlations between Social Media Addiction and Anxiety, Depression, FoMO, Loneliness and Self-Esteem among Students examined 32 studies involving more than 26,000 students and found a significant positive relationship between social media addiction and anxiety. Students with problematic social media use were more likely to experience heightened anxiety symptoms compared to their counterparts with healthier digital habits. 3 4

The findings suggest that excessive social media engagement may contribute to constant psychological stimulation and emotional stress, making students more vulnerable to anxiety-related disorders.

3.5 Social Media Addiction and Depression

Depression is another major mental health issue associated with excessive social media use. Research indicates that prolonged exposure to carefully curated online lifestyles often encourages unfavorable social comparisons, which may result in feelings of inadequacy and dissatisfaction.

The systematic review and meta-analysis conducted by Zhang Jing and colleagues reported a significant positive correlation between social media addiction and depression among students. The study concluded that students with higher levels of social media addiction are more likely to experience depressive symptoms. 3 4

Furthermore, the review of Nigerian university students titled The Systematic Review of Social Media Addiction and Mental Health of Nigerian University Students: The Good, The Bad and The Ugly highlighted that excessive social media use contributes to depression, especially when students engage in frequent social comparison and become dependent on online validation. 5

3.6 Social Media Addiction and Loneliness

Although social media platforms are designed to connect people, studies have shown that excessive use may paradoxically increase loneliness. Online interactions often replace face-to-face communication, reducing opportunities for meaningful social engagement.

The meta-analysis by Zhang Jing and colleagues found a positive association between social media addiction and loneliness, indicating that students who exhibit addictive social media behaviors are more likely to report feelings of isolation. 3 4

Researchers attribute this phenomenon to superficial online relationships and unrealistic expectations created by digital interactions.

3.7 Social Media Addiction and Self-Esteem

Self-esteem refers to an individual’s overall sense of self-worth and personal value. Several studies have examined how social media addiction affects self-esteem among university students.

The meta-analysis conducted by Zhang Jing and colleagues found a negative correlation between social media addiction and self-esteem, suggesting that increased addiction is associated with lower self-worth among students. 3 4

Students who constantly compare their appearance, achievements, and lifestyles with those portrayed online often develop feelings of inferiority and dissatisfaction. Consequently, excessive social media use may undermine confidence and emotional well-being.

3.8 Social Media Addiction and Stress

Several studies have linked excessive social media usage with elevated stress levels. Constant notifications, information overload, academic distractions, online conflicts, and the pressure to remain active online contribute to increased psychological tension.

A study titled The Prevalence of Internet Addiction and Its Impact on Undergraduates’ Mental Health in Lagos State, Nigeria investigated 830 undergraduates across public tertiary institutions in Lagos State and examined the relationship between internet addiction and mental health indicators such as depression, anxiety, and stress. The findings highlighted the significant mental health implications of problematic internet use among undergraduates. 6 7

These findings suggest that addictive digital behaviors can become a significant source of psychological stress among students.

3.9 Literature within the Nigerian and Lagos State Context

Research focusing on Nigeria indicates a growing concern regarding social media and internet addiction among university students. Nigerian undergraduates increasingly depend on social media for communication, learning, entertainment, and social interaction.

The study conducted by Evbusogie A. Ezekiel and colleagues among undergraduates in Lagos State demonstrated that problematic internet use is associated with adverse mental health outcomes, particularly depression, anxiety, and stress. 6 7

Similarly, the Nigerian systematic review by Benjamin Olabimitan concluded that while social media contributes positively to information dissemination and social connectivity, addiction to these platforms negatively affects students’ mental health and psychological well-being. 5

These studies reveal that the challenges associated with social media addiction are increasingly relevant within Lagos State, where internet penetration and smartphone usage continue to rise.

3.10 Gap in Literature

Although numerous international studies have established a relationship between social media addiction and mental health, there remains a limited number of empirical studies specifically focusing on undergraduates in Lagos State. Much of the available Nigerian literature examines internet addiction generally rather than social media addiction specifically.

Furthermore, existing studies often focus on single mental health outcomes such as anxiety or depression without comprehensively examining multiple psychological dimensions simultaneously. There is therefore a need for more localized research that investigates the influence of social media addiction on various mental health indicators among undergraduates in Lagos State.

3.11 Summary of Literature Review

The reviewed literature demonstrates a consistent relationship between social media addiction and poor mental health outcomes among university students. Studies have shown that excessive social media use contributes to anxiety, depression, loneliness, low self-esteem, stress, and sleep-related problems. Evidence from Nigerian and Lagos State studies further confirms that problematic online behavior poses significant psychological risks to undergraduates. While social media provides educational, social, and professional benefits, its addictive use can undermine students’ mental well-being. The literature therefore supports the need for interventions aimed at promoting balanced and responsible social media use among undergraduates in Lagos State.

3. Theoretical Framework

3.1 Uses and Gratifications Theory

The Uses and Gratifications Theory suggests that individuals actively choose media channels to satisfy specific needs such as:

Social interaction
Entertainment
Information seeking
Identity formation
Emotional support

Undergraduates often use social media to satisfy these needs. However, excessive reliance on these platforms can create dependency and addictive behaviors.

3.2 Social Comparison Theory

Social Comparison Theory posits that individuals evaluate themselves by comparing their lives, achievements, and appearance with others.

On social media, students are frequently exposed to curated lifestyles and idealized representations of peers, celebrities, and influencers. Constant comparison can generate:

Feelings of inadequacy
Low self-worth
Body image concerns
Dissatisfaction with life

These factors contribute significantly to psychological distress.

3.3 Cognitive Behavioral Theory

This theory argues that maladaptive thoughts influence behaviors and emotions. Social media addiction can reinforce negative thinking patterns, causing users to seek online validation continuously through likes, comments, and followers.

4. Prevalence of Social Media Usage Among Undergraduates

University students constitute one of the largest groups of social media users worldwide. Easy access to smartphones and affordable internet services has significantly increased social media consumption among Nigerian undergraduates.

Research conducted among undergraduates in Lagos State found substantial levels of problematic internet use and identified significant relationships between addictive internet behavior and mental health outcomes including depression, anxiety, and stress. 4 5

Globally, studies indicate that social media has become deeply integrated into students’ daily routines, making addiction-related concerns an important public health issue. 6 7

Several factors contribute to high social media engagement among Lagos undergraduates:

Academic communication
Peer influence
Entertainment
Fear of missing out (FoMO)
Accessibility of smartphones
Digital culture

5. Causes of Social Media Addiction Among Undergraduates

5.1 Fear of Missing Out (FoMO)

FoMO refers to the anxiety that others may be having rewarding experiences without one’s participation. Students frequently check social media to remain updated on trends, events, and social activities.

Research identifies FoMO as a significant predictor of problematic social media use and adverse mental health outcomes. 1 7

5.2 Need for Social Validation

Many undergraduates derive self-worth from online feedback such as:

Likes
Shares
Comments
Followers

The pursuit of validation can encourage compulsive social media engagement.

5.3 Academic and Social Pressure

Students often use social media as an escape from academic stress and personal challenges. Over time, this coping mechanism can develop into dependency.

5.4 Accessibility and Affordability

Lagos State has extensive internet penetration and mobile connectivity, making social media readily accessible to students.

5.5 Entertainment and Escapism

Platforms such as TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube provide endless streams of content designed to sustain user attention, increasing the likelihood of addictive behavior.

6. Influence of Social Media Addiction on Mental Health

6.1 Anxiety

Anxiety is one of the most common psychological effects associated with excessive social media use.

Students may experience anxiety due to:

Fear of missing updates
Pressure to respond instantly
Online competition
Cyberbullying
Social comparison

A systematic review and meta-analysis found a positive relationship between social media addiction and anxiety among students. 1 2

6.2 Depression

Prolonged social media addiction may contribute to depressive symptoms through:

Constant comparison with others
Perceived social exclusion
Reduced face-to-face interaction
Negative feedback experiences

Evidence from large-scale reviews consistently links problematic social media use with increased depression among college students. 1 7

6.3 Loneliness and Social Isolation

Ironically, heavy social media users may experience greater loneliness despite being digitally connected.

Excessive online interactions can reduce:

Physical socialization
Meaningful relationships
Emotional intimacy

Research demonstrates a positive association between social media addiction and loneliness. 1 2

6.4 Low Self-Esteem

Students frequently compare their lives with idealized online portrayals.

This can result in:

Negative self-evaluation
Feelings of inadequacy
Reduced confidence
Poor body image

Meta-analytic evidence shows that social media addiction is negatively associated with self-esteem. 1 2

6.5 Stress

Continuous exposure to information overload, notifications, and online obligations contributes to elevated stress levels.

Studies among Lagos undergraduates have linked addictive internet behavior with psychological stress outcomes. 4 5

6.6 Sleep Disturbances

Students often use social media late at night, leading to:

Insomnia
Poor sleep quality
Delayed sleep schedules
Daytime fatigue

The WHO notes that problematic social media use has been associated with less sleep and later bedtimes. 3

6.7 Academic Burnout

Addiction may negatively affect academic performance by causing:

Reduced concentration
Procrastination
Missed deadlines
Poor classroom engagement

Students who spend excessive time online may struggle to balance academic responsibilities with social media activities.

7. Positive Effects of Social Media

Despite its risks, social media can offer several benefits when used responsibly.

Academic Benefits

Students use social media to:

Access learning materials
Collaborate on assignments
Join academic communities
Share educational resources

Emotional Support

Online communities can provide:

Peer support
Mental health awareness
Counseling resources
Encouragement during stressful periods

Career Development

Platforms like LinkedIn assist students in:

Building professional networks
Seeking internships
Exploring career opportunities

These advantages indicate that the problem lies not in social media itself but in excessive and uncontrolled usage.

8. Empirical Evidence from Nigeria and Lagos State

Studies conducted in Nigeria demonstrate growing concerns regarding social media and internet addiction among university students.

A 2025 study involving 830 undergraduates from three public tertiary institutions in Lagos State examined internet addiction and its relationship with depression, anxiety, and stress, highlighting the significant mental health implications of excessive online engagement among students. 4 5

A systematic review focusing on Nigerian university students concluded that while social media provides educational and communication benefits, addiction to these platforms is associated with adverse mental health outcomes, including depression and anxiety. 8

Research conducted among Lagos State undergraduates has also drawn attention to smartphone addiction as an emerging concern because of its implications for psychological well-being among students. 9

These findings suggest that Lagos undergraduates are increasingly vulnerable to mental health challenges arising from excessive digital engagement.

9. Recommendations

To mitigate the negative effects of social media addiction on undergraduate mental health, the following measures are recommended:

For Students

Set daily limits for social media use.
Practice digital detox periods.
Engage in physical and recreational activities.
Prioritize face-to-face social interaction.
Seek professional support when experiencing psychological distress.

For Universities

Introduce digital wellness education.
Expand access to counseling services.
Organize mental health awareness campaigns.
Encourage balanced technology use.

For Parents and Guardians

Promote open communication regarding social media habits.
Encourage healthy lifestyle choices.
Monitor excessive online behavior where appropriate.

For Policymakers

Develop digital well-being policies.
Support mental health programs in tertiary institutions.
Encourage responsible technology practices.

For Social Media Companies

Introduce screen-time reminders.
Improve digital well-being tools.
Strengthen anti-cyberbullying policies.

10. Conclusion

Social media has become an indispensable aspect of undergraduate life in Lagos State. While these platforms offer opportunities for learning, communication, and professional development, excessive usage can evolve into social media addiction with significant consequences for mental health. Evidence from both global and Nigerian studies demonstrates that social media addiction is associated with anxiety, depression, loneliness, stress, poor sleep quality, low self-esteem, and academic difficulties. The situation is particularly relevant in Lagos State, where widespread internet access and digital engagement have increased students’ exposure to social media.

Addressing this challenge requires collaborative efforts from students, universities, families, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and technology companies. Through digital literacy, mental health interventions, and responsible social media use, undergraduates can enjoy the benefits of social media while minimizing its harmful psychological effects.

References

Ezekiel, E. A., Balogun, M., Maduafokwa, B., et al. (2025). The prevalence of Internet addiction and its impact on undergraduates’ mental health in Lagos State, Nigeria. Journal of Public Health in Africa. 4 5

Jing, Z., Yang, W., Lei, Z., Junmei, W., Hui, L., & Tianmin, Z. (2025). Correlations between social media addiction and anxiety, depression, FoMO, loneliness and self-esteem among students: A systematic review and meta-analysis. PLOS ONE. 1 2

World Health Organization. (2024). Teens, screens and mental health. WHO Regional Office for Europe. 3

Fatima, A., Akhter, M. S., Kanekar, A., et al. (2025). A Scoping Review of the Use and Determinants of Social Media Among College Students. Healthcare. 7

Olabimitan, B. (2024). The Systematic Review of Social Media Addiction and Mental Health of Nigerian University Students: The Good, The Bad and The Ugly. European Journal of Theoretical and Applied Sciences. 8

Biobaku, M. O., & Adisa, A. B. (2026). Smartphone Addiction Among Undergraduates in Lagos State, Nigeria. European Scientific Journal. 9