Abstract
This study investigates the complex relationship between mental health content on social media and users' self perceptions of mental health. Using a qualitative survey, we analyzed the frequency of participants' social media usage, perceived credibility of mental health content and how the information they view online impacts the perceptions of their mental health. The main study results show that the use of social media as a mental health tool leads to reduced mental health status. These findings suggest that this is a growing issue within the field of mental health, and needs to be further researched as technological advancements continue to exacerbate this issue.
Recommended Citation
Patey, Clara T.. 2026. "Social Contagion: How Social Media Alters Users Self Perceptions of Mental Health." Bridges: An Undergraduate Journal of Contemporary Connections 9, (1). https://scholars.wlu.ca/bridges_contemporary_connections/vol9/iss1/3