RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN MEDIA ADDICTION AND MENTAL HEALTH STATUS AMONG UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS OF YUSUF MAITAMA SULE UNIVERSITY, KANO

Abstract This study examined the relationship between media (social media) addiction and mental health status among undergraduate students of Yusuf Maitama Sule University, Kano. The increasing use of social media platforms among students has raised concerns about its potential effects on psychological well-being and academic life. The study adopted a quantitative survey research design, targeting a population of undergraduate students, from which a representative sample was selected using appropriate sampling techniques. Data were collected through structured questionnaires designed to measure levels of media addiction and mental health indicators such as anxiety, depression, and stress. Descriptive and inferential statistical methods, including correlation analysis, were used to analyze the data. Findings revealed a high prevalence of social media usage among students, with a significant proportion exhibiting addictive behaviors. The results further indicated a significant relationship between media addiction and mental health status, showing that excessive use of social media is associated with increased levels of anxiety, depression, and psychological distress among students. The study also found variations in usage patterns based on demographic factors such as gender and level of study. It concluded that while social media serves as a useful tool for communication and information sharing, its excessive use can negatively affect students’ mental health. The study therefore recommends awareness programs, counseling services, and the promotion of healthy media usage habits among students to mitigate the adverse effects of media addiction.