O impacto das redes sociais na saúde mental: um estudo sobre a relação entre o uso excessivo de redes sociais e o sofrimento psíquico em usuários de internet

Abstract

Each year it is noticed that there is an increase in the number of individuals who are adept at the internet, and that they make unrestrained use of social networks. It is observed then that technology has brought advantages and disadvantages to the process of social experience, with its greatest negative impacts on the quality of mental health. Obsessive behavior through social networks enhances the negative effects on the quality of life and mental health of such individuals. From this perspective, the following question was asked: What is the relationship between the excessive use of digital social networks and psychological distress in internet users? The aim of this monograph was to analyze the relationship between excessive use of digital social networks and psychological distress among internet users. The methodology of this study was a literature review, qualitative in nature, with selection of articles, monographs, dissertations, books, published in the period from 2005 to 2021. It was found that excessive use causes dependence and directly affects social relations, and produces harm to mental health, especially in the youth population. Virtual social networks can aggravate social problems and generate major impacts on an individual's life, such as anxiety, depression, cyberbullying and addiction. It is worth noting that mental problems can be seen as harmful to health, directly affecting social life and the individual's relationship with himself, in which he will need psychological treatment, with the support of a multidisciplinary team, in which the individual can have their state transformed into health with quality of life.