Social media isn’t equally harmful — and the difference may lie in how it is designed. A new global study suggests that platforms built around endless scrolling and algorithms are far more damaging to mental health than those focused on direct human connection.
According to the latest World Happiness Report, platforms such as Instagram and TikTok are linked to poorer mental health outcomes compared to messaging-led apps like WhatsApp and Facebook.
The report, led by the Wellbeing Research Centre, finds that excessive social media use is contributing to rising unhappiness among young people globally. The impact is particularly pronounced in English-speaking countries and western Europe.
Research spanning 17 countries in Latin America found that frequent use of WhatsApp and Facebook — platforms centred on communication — was associated with higher life satisfaction.
In contrast, heavy use of X, Instagram and TikTok — which rely heavily on algorithm-driven feeds and influencer content — correlated with lower happiness levels and more mental health concerns.
Similar trends were observed in the Middle East and North Africa, where passive, visually driven platforms were found to be more problematic.
The findings suggest that moderation is key. Limited use of social media — about an hour a day — was associated with higher life satisfaction than complete avoidance (excluding those without internet access).
However, average usage levels are significantly higher, at around two-and-a-half hours daily, indicating widespread overuse.
The study’s conclusions come amid policy moves such as Australia’s proposed ban on social media access for under-16s. Notably, the restriction targets platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and X, while excluding messaging apps such as WhatsApp.
Researchers caution against hasty decisions, arguing that the type and intensity of usage matter more than blanket restrictions.
The report also highlights broader wellbeing trends. Finland retained its position as the world’s happiest country for the ninth consecutive year.
No English-speaking nation made it to the top 10 for the second year in a row. The UK slipped to 29th place, while the US ranked 23rd. Countries such as Costa Rica, Kosovo and Slovenia saw notable improvements.
Experts emphasise that social media is only one part of a larger picture. Youth concerns around job security, cost of living and future prospects are also weighing heavily on wellbeing, particularly in countries like the US and UK.
The broader takeaway: social media itself is not inherently harmful — but how it is designed and used can make a significant difference.