Social Media and Psychological Morbidity: A Preliminary Study of Stress, Depression, and Anxiety among Students at the National University of Malaysia

Abstract

This study investigates the relationship between social media usage patterns and mental health outcomes among students at National University of Malaysia. Using a quantitative research design, data were collected from 43 respondents among undergraduate students using Depression Anxiety Stress Scales DASS 21 and Internet Addiction Test (IAT). The data were analyzed using appropriate statistical techniques. The analysis examined associations between social media engagement and indicators of mental health, including anxiety, depression, and overall psychological well-being. The findings reveal significant correlations between higher levels of social media use and adverse mental health outcomes. Results from Pearson’s correlation was used to measure the strength and direction of the linear relationship between two variables. The correlation analysis results indicate that stress is strongly and significantly correlated with anxiety (r = 0.744, p < 0.01), depression (r = 0.646, p < 0.01), and internet addiction (r = 0.596, p < 0.01). Overall, the study found that social media use can contribute to internet addiction and negatively affect mental health, including stress, anxiety, and depression. These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions and evidence-based strategies to promote healthier digital behaviors and support students’ psychological well-being.