In today’s interconnected world, social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok have become an inseparable part of our daily lives. From staying in touch with friends and family to sharing personal experiences and opinions, these platforms offer numerous benefits. However, as the global digital ecosystem continues to evolve, concerns about the impact of social media on mental health have intensified, especially in countries like Pakistan. With the rapid increase in social media use, the consequences for mental health are becoming a growing concern.
The Growing Influence of Social Media in Pakistan
Pakistan has seen a remarkable surge in social media usage, reflecting the global trend but with distinct regional characteristics. According to DataReportal’s 2025 report, over 80 million people in Pakistan are active social media users. This is a significant jump, as internet penetration and smartphone use have expanded rapidly in the past few years. Particularly among Pakistan’s youth – where more than 55% of the population is under 30 – social media has become the primary form of communication, entertainment, and even learning.
The country has over 70 million active Facebook users, with Instagram and WhatsApp also reporting high engagement levels. In 2025, a large portion of the Pakistani population spends an average of 3-4 hours daily on these platforms. These numbers are reflective of Pakistan’s digital transformation, where internet access is no longer a luxury but an essential part of daily life. However, as social media continues to evolve in Pakistan, its impact on mental health – especially among young people – has raised alarms.
The Positive Side: Connectivity, Awareness, and Empowerment
Despite the challenges, social media does have its benefits, especially when it comes to mental health awareness and social connectivity. One of the primary advantages of social media is its ability to connect people. In a country as vast and diverse as Pakistan, these platforms allow families and friends to stay connected across cities and even international borders. For Pakistanis living abroad, social media provides a convenient means to keep in touch with loved ones back home, mitigating feelings of isolation.
Social media has also facilitated a significant shift in attitudes towards mental health in Pakistan. The country, where mental health issues were once stigmatized and rarely discussed, has seen a shift in narrative, with platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok becoming crucial spaces for raising awareness. Initiatives like #MentalHealthMatters have encouraged Pakistanis to speak out about their struggles with depression, anxiety, and other conditions. The public dialogue surrounding mental health is gradually becoming more open, with mental health professionals and advocates using these platforms to provide guidance, resources, and support to individuals facing mental health challenges.
Moreover, social media is now a tool for spreading educational content, with users sharing personal experiences and strategies for coping with mental health issues. Pakistan’s active social media community has taken to platforms like YouTube to create awareness and offer practical solutions, including mindfulness techniques, stress reduction practices, and ways to deal with anxiety and depression. These digital spaces serve as lifelines for those who may not have immediate access to formal mental health services.
The Dark Side: Anxiety, Depression, and the Comparison Trap
While social media offers many positives, it is not without its darker side. According to research conducted by PIDE (Pakistan Institute of Development Economics) in 2025, nearly 38% of Pakistani social media users reported feeling increased stress, anxiety, and dissatisfaction with their lives after spending time on these platforms. One of the most pressing concerns is the growing phenomenon of social comparison. Social media platforms, particularly Instagram, are dominated by idealized representations of people’s lives, often showcasing their achievements, travels, and material success.
This constant stream of "perfect" lives can lead individuals – especially young, impressionable users – to develop a distorted sense of reality. According to the National Youth Council of Pakistan, about 40% of young social media users feel pressure to live up to the “perfect” standards they see online, leading to feelings of inadequacy. The idealized images shared on social media can cause users to compare themselves unfavorably to others, leading to a decline in self-esteem and increased anxiety. This phenomenon, often referred to as the "Comparison Trap," is particularly prevalent among teenagers and young adults in Pakistan, who may already be vulnerable due to issues like body image concerns or academic and career pressures.
In fact, a survey conducted by the Journal of Social Media Studies found that 42% of individuals who spent more than 3 hours per day on social media in Pakistan reported experiencing symptoms of depression. They noted a marked decrease in life satisfaction and an increase in loneliness, despite being more connected digitally. This dissonance – feeling connected but emotionally disconnected – has emerged as a significant mental health concern.
Another major issue is the constant need for validation, with users becoming obsessed with gaining likes, shares, and comments. In Pakistan, where social media influencers and celebrities are often held to high standards, this need for external approval can lead to stress and anxiety, particularly when engagement levels fall short of expectations.
Cyberbullying and Online Harassment: Rising Concerns
In addition to the pressures of social comparison, cyberbullying and online harassment have become rampant in Pakistan’s social media sphere. As social media platforms have become more accessible, incidents of trolling, harassment, and bullying have increased. In 2025, a study conducted by the National Youth Council of Pakistan revealed that 25% of young people in Pakistan have experienced some form of cyberbullying on social media. These incidents can include hateful comments, personal attacks, and even threats, leading to severe emotional distress.
The anonymity offered by social media often emboldens users to target others with harmful comments, leading to a toxic online culture. This harassment can have significant long-term effects on mental health, contributing to feelings of fear, shame, and depression. For many Pakistani youth, online harassment has resulted in them withdrawing from digital spaces, further isolating themselves from peer groups and support networks.
Government and Institutional Responsibility
In light of these concerns, it is essential for Pakistan’s government and educational institutions to play an active role in addressing the mental health challenges posed by social media. While there have been some efforts to regulate content and curb cyberbullying, more comprehensive policies are needed to protect users. In 2025, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) announced plans to implement stricter regulations to protect minors from harmful content and cyberbullying. However, experts argue that more proactive initiatives, such as digital literacy programs in schools, are necessary to help young people understand the potential dangers of social media and how to navigate them responsibly.
Moreover, healthcare providers and mental health professionals must continue to advocate for the responsible use of social media. Virtual therapy options have become a crucial resource for many Pakistanis seeking mental health support, especially in rural areas where traditional services may be limited. Offering affordable online counseling services and creating platforms for mental health discussions can significantly reduce the stigma surrounding mental health in Pakistan.
Finding a Healthy Balance: Navigating Social Media Mindfully
Ultimately, the key to managing the impact of social media on mental health lies in striking a balance. Experts suggest that individuals should limit their social media usage to no more than two hours per day and prioritize real-life interactions over digital ones. Engaging in activities that promote mental well-being, such as exercise, spending time in nature, and practicing mindfulness, can help users maintain a healthy online-offline balance.
Social media is an indispensable part of modern life, but its effects on mental health cannot be ignored. By taking proactive measures to promote digital literacy, implement stronger regulations, and encourage healthy usage habits, Pakistan can ensure that social media serves as a tool for connection, education, and empowerment without compromising mental health.
