PERCEIVED USE OF SOCIAL MEDIA AND ITS INFLUENCE ON THE MENTAL HEALTH OF OSUN STATE POLYTECHNIC STUDENTS

This study investigates the perceived use of social media and its influence on the mental health of students at Osun State Polytechnic. Employing a quantitative research design through the survey method, data were gathered from 332 respondents, selected using stratified sampling from a population of 17,000 students. The study utilized a structured questionnaire, validated and pre- tested for reliability, to collect data online. Findings revealed that social media significantly impacts students' mental health, with both positive and negative effects. While many students use social media for connection, support, and information, others experience anxiety, depression, and social comparison due to their online interactions. The extent of social media usage and the type of content consumed were found to directly correlate with students' mental health, highlighting both the beneficial and detrimental aspects of social media engagement. The research concludes that while social media offers opportunities for communication and learning, excessive or maladaptive use can lead to adverse mental health outcomes. To address these challenges, recommendations include promoting digital literacy, providing accessible mental health support, encouraging balanced social media usage, and fostering peer support networks. The study also acknowledges limitations such as its focus on a single institution and suggests further research on socio-economic factors, family background, and the impact of specific types of social media contents on mental health. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), providing a comprehensive understanding of the research findings and their implications for students' well-being.