Muscat – As social media continues to embed itself into everyday life, mental health professionals are sounding the alarm on its profound effects – both positive and negative – on human behaviour and psychological well-being.

According to experts, social media platforms serve as tools for maintaining social connections, forming virtual communities and supporting individuals facing mental health challenges. They allow for sharing personal achievements, participating in cultural events, and even fostering a sense of belonging. “Social media facilitates communication, helps people celebrate milestones, and offers a space for individuals with shared interests to interact,” said H H Sayyida Dr Basma bint Fakhri al Said, a mental health expert and trainer in post-traumatic stress disorder.

H H Sayyida Basma acknowledged that platforms can offer a lifeline for those experiencing anxiety or depression, through virtual support groups that offer emotional encouragement and a sense of inclusion. However, she cautioned against relying on popular influencers for advice, stating, “The number of followers is not a reliable measure when seeking mental health support.”

She emphasised the danger of constant comparison on social media, noting that it can provoke anxiety and even lead to distorted self-perception. “There are alternatives to reduce social media dependency – limiting screen time, engaging in offline activities, and seeking professional help are vital steps,” she said.

H H Sayyida Basma also warned that excessive digital interaction could weaken real-life communication skills and promote superficial online behaviours. “The content shared online may come in conflict with cultural or religious values, and exposure to unrealistic standards can lead to emotional distress and poor decision-making,” she added.

Samra bint Saeed al Maashari, a psychologist at the Ministry of Social Development, echoed these concerns. She highlighted the value of using social media to raise mental health awareness and build supportive communities.

“These platforms can help individuals cope with psychological difficulties and offer tools for personal growth,” she said. However, she noted that issues such as cyberbullying and exposure to inappropriate content remain significant challenges, particularly among children and adolescents.

According to Fatima bint Amer al Sunaidiya, a counselling specialist at Sultan Qaboos University, social media has reshaped interpersonal relationships, often replacing face-to-face interaction with digital alternatives. “Virtual communities offer psychological support and solidarity, particularly where discussing mental health is still considered taboo,” she observed.

Fatima warned of the psychological consequences of ‘social comparison’, a process where individuals measure their lives against idealised portrayals seen online. “This distorts self-image and may lead to feelings of inferiority,” she said. She called for psychological interventions, education programmes, and greater digital literacy to help users engage with online content critically.

All three experts agreed that social media is not inherently harmful, but its influence depends on how it is used. They urged greater awareness, responsible content creation, and the promotion of mental health education across educational institutions and communities.