{"id":21659,"date":"2025-10-26T11:00:30","date_gmt":"2025-10-26T15:00:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/okdiario.com\/metabolic\/en\/?p=21659"},"modified":"2025-10-26T11:00:30","modified_gmt":"2025-10-26T15:00:30","slug":"american-psychiatrists-find-half-of-u-s-adults-are-reducing-social-media-use-for-mental-health-benefits","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/okdiario.com\/metabolic\/en\/psychology\/emotions-and-mental-health\/american-psychiatrists-find-half-of-u-s-adults-are-reducing-social-media-use-for-mental-health-benefits-21659\/","title":{"rendered":"American psychiatrists find half of U.S. adults are reducing social media use for mental health benefits"},"content":{"rendered":"

In 2025, half of U.S. adults are deliberately reducing their social media use<\/strong>, according to new polling from the American Psychiatric Association (APA)<\/a><\/strong>. The findings highlight a complex relationship with technology: while most Americans rely heavily on their devices, many are also taking steps to protect their mental well-being.<\/p>\n

The survey reveals that even as 62% of adults feel anxious when they can\u2019t access their phones<\/strong>, two in five have started to limit their overall screen time. A significant share of respondents have chosen to scale back their social media activity, reflecting a growing awareness of its emotional impact.<\/p>\n

Half of adults are limiting social media as mental health concerns grow<\/h2>\n

The APA poll<\/a><\/strong> shows that 50% of adults have actively reduced their social media usage this year<\/strong>. When asked how social media affects their mental health, nearly half (44%) said it has a neutral impact, while 32% believe it does more harm than good\u2014compared to 24% who see it as positive. Parents were less likely to say it\u2019s harming their children, with fewer than three in ten (28%) viewing it as negative.<\/p>\n

The skepticism extends beyond personal well-being: 42% of U.S. adults believe social media has had a damaging effect on society overall, and 38% say it has worsened political discourse. These perceptions help explain why many are choosing to spend less time online<\/strong>, even as social media remains central to daily life.<\/p>\n

At the same time, engagement with mental health content on social platforms has been rising<\/strong> compared to 2024. More adults are encountering personal stories and educational materials online. Specifically, 38% have seen people share their mental health experiences on social media this year, up from 30% the year before. Additionally, 29% have learned about mental health disorders online, compared with 22% in 2024.<\/p>\n

YouTube and Facebook lead as sources for mental health information<\/h2>\n

Among those who use social media for mental health information, YouTube and Facebook stand out as the main platforms<\/strong>. Thirty-six percent of respondents said they encounter this type of content on YouTube, while 29% named Facebook. Gender differences emerged as well: men were more likely (44%) than women (28%) to find information on YouTube or Instagram.<\/p>\n

APA President Theresa M. Miskimen Rivera, M.D., highlighted the importance of ensuring that online information comes from credible sources<\/strong>. “We\u2019re encouraged to see a growing conversation about mental health on social media,” she said. “At the same time, it\u2019s important to make sure that the sources of this information are consistent with accurate evidence-based medical materials, and to consult a psychiatrist or other mental health professional if you feel like you need help.”<\/p>\n

According to the poll, 17% of Americans<\/strong><\/a> have discussed mental health information they encountered online with a professional<\/strong>. Younger adults are more likely than those over 45 to bring up such topics with their doctors, suggesting that digital content can sometimes serve as a starting point for real-world conversations.<\/p>\n

As Americans balance constant connectivity with growing concerns about digital well-being, the results show a clear shift: more people are consciously managing their social media habits to support their mental health. <\/strong>This trend suggests a broader cultural move toward more intentional and mindful technology use.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

In 2025, half of U.S. adults are deliberately reducing their social media use, according to new polling from the American … <\/p>\n

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