The impact of mobile phone use on mental health of the youth

Abstract

The widespread adoption of mobile phones among youth has raised concerns about its potential impact on mental health. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between mobile phone use and mental health outcomes, including stress, anxiety, depression, and sleep quality, among a sample of 186 youth aged 16-30 years. A mixed-methods approach combining survey data and in-depth interviews revealed a significant positive correlation between mobile phone use and symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress. Excessive mobile phone use was also found to disrupt sleep patterns, leading to poor sleep quality. The qualitative findings highlighted the role of social media, fear of missing out (FOMO), and cyber bullying in aggravate mental health concerns. The study’s findings have implications for mental health professionals, policymakers, and parents, emphasizing the need for responsible mobile phone use, digital literacy, and targeted interventions to mitigate the negative effects of mobile phone use on youth mental health.