Social Media, AI, and Mental Health in India: The Digital Addiction and Cyberbullying Epidemic

In the current digital age, social media and artificial intelligence (AI) are a part of our lives. Social media sites such as Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube unite people, entertain them, and even teach them. AI-based algorithms improve the experience of users by making the content personalized, thus making online interactions more engaging. But excessive use of social media has caused severe mental health issues in India, such as digital addiction, cyberbullying, and other ill effects.

The Issue of Digital Addiction

With cheap smartphones and ubiquitous internet connectivity, more individuals are spending too much time online. Endless scrolling, frequent checking of notifications, and restlessness when away from devices are obvious symptoms of digital addiction. Most young Indians, particularly students, find it difficult to concentrate on their studies because of social media distractions. The compulsive urge to check likes, comments, and messages can raise stress levels, interfere with sleep patterns, and lead to anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem as users compare their lives to unrealistic online representations.

The Effect of Cyberbullying

Social media, once used for expressing oneself, is also used today to cyberbully. Teens, influencers, and celebrities often endure online attacks such as backhanded compliments, threats, and trolling. Cyberbullying is on the increase in India and has profoundly impacted the psychological health of the victims. It causes loneliness, anxiety, and suicidal tendencies following continuous exposure. The laws governing cyberbullying exist, yet the cases never make it through the reporting list as people do not report these occurrences out of fear and a lack of understanding.

Defending Mental Wellbeing in the Online Age

In order to have a healthy social media relationship, individuals need to put limits on use, use digital detox time off, and place importance on offline interactions. Schools and parents have to inform younger users of internet safety and correct use of the internet. Social media platforms must have tougher controls against cyberbullying and misinformation through enhanced content moderation and fact-checking.

Although social media and AI provide various advantages, they have to be utilized in a responsible manner. Creating awareness about digital addiction, cyberbullying, and disinformation is essential to ensure that technology improves life instead of adversely affecting mental health.