Economic Survey Warns: Social Media Addiction Linked to Anxiety, Depression in Youth

• Economic Survey 2025-26 highlights social media addiction as a major public health concern, impacting India's demographic dividend.
• Addiction is strongly associated with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and cyberbullying stress, especially among 15-24 year olds.
• Compulsive scrolling and constant social comparison are identified as key drivers of mental health issues.
• Beyond social media, the Survey flags risks from gaming disorder, online gambling, and binge-watching, leading to sleep disruption, aggression, financial stress, and reduced concentration.
• The Survey emphasizes the importance of face-to-face social connections for better mental well-being, suggesting digital engagement may displace healthier interactions.

Why It Matters: Digital addiction, particularly social media, poses significant mental health risks for Indian youth, impacting the demographic dividend.