Social media fueling vices, mental health issues among youths – Neuropsychiatrist reveals

On Mar 6, 2025

A Consultant Neuropsychiatrist, Dr Maymunah Kadiri, says technology and social media are contributing to the rise of social vices and mental health conditions, particularly among young Nigerians.

Kadiri, who is also the Medical Director of Pinnacle Medical Services, Lagos State, made this assertion in an interview with the Newsmen on Thursday in Lagos.

She explained that the influence of technology and social media had led many people to experience depression due to unrealistic expectations and the disappointments they face from their interactions on social media platforms.

According to her, various forms of immoral behaviour, atrocities, quick methods of suicide, and drug abuse can easily be found on the internet and social media.

“Presently, the youths navigate the internet and social media to get the latest information on how best and fastest ways to perpetrate any form of immorality.

“Some people get depressed as a result of cyber bullying from their followers through condemnation they get on the contents they upload on social media.

“People should try to manage their expectations on social media. Research shows that some people got depressed simply because they didn’t get expected likes on their posts as their friends got on their posts,” she said.

Kadiri, who decried the effects of social media, said that many youths have over depended on it, leading to their excessive usage of the social media.

According to her, excessive exposure to social media is a risk factor for depression and mental health problems, which can lead to suicide.

Kadiri, who is also a psychotherapist, advised youths to be mindful of how they use technology and social media to prevent negative impacts on their mental health.

“Some people, particularly youths spend too much time on social media, which to a great extent affects their mental health.

“They do not have life outside social media again.

“Sleep was not designed by God to disgrace us; the brain needs to be shut down at certain times for it to reset and maintain optimum functionality the next day.

“When you are having less than five hours sleep per day and you do not allow the brain to rest, depression can begin to occur,” she said.

Kadiri, however, said that social media is a good technological innovation, but has been used by many people to exaggerate their strengths and achievements rather than a combination of strength and weaknesses.

NAN/Wumi