INFLUENCE OF SOCIAL MEDIA UTILIZATION ON MENTAL HEALTH STATUS AMONG ADOLESCENTS IN ILORIN, KWARA STATE

Abstract

This study examined the association between social media utilization and the mental health status of adolescents in Ilorin, Kwara State. A descriptive cross-sectional research design was adopted, and a structured questionnaire was administered to 375 adolescents selected through multistage sampling. Mental health was assessed using adapted scales measuring anxiety, sadness, concentration difficulties, sleep disturbance, self-esteem, and negative social comparison, with good internal consistency (Cronbach’s α = 0.82). Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and one-way ANOVA. Findings revealed that all participants were active social media users, with WhatsApp (68.0%) and TikTok (50.4%) being the most frequently used platforms. Anxiety and concentration difficulties were the most reported mental health challenges. Correlation analysis showed significant but weak associations: a negative correlation between duration of use and anxiety (r = - 0.220, p<0.001) and a positive correlation with sleep disturbance (r = 0.158, p=0.002). ANOVA results indicated that the purpose of social-media use had a significant and stronger association with all six mental-health outcomes, with entertainment use linked to more negative outcomes. It was concluded that patterns of social media use, particularly the purpose of engagement, are associated with adolescents’ psychological well-being. Parental monitoring, digital-literacy education, and guided social-media engagement were recommended to promote healthier online behavior.