Instagram, TikTok, X linked to poorer mental health than WhatsApp, Facebook
text_fields
A new study led by the Wellbeing Research Centre at the University of Oxford has found that algorithm-driven platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and X are associated with worse mental health outcomes compared to connection-focused apps like WhatsApp and Facebook.
Published as part of the World Happiness Report, the research found that platforms centred on passive and visual content tend to generate significantly higher negative emotional responses.
The study reported that frequent use of WhatsApp and Facebook is linked to higher life satisfaction, better overall life evaluation, and greater positive emotions. WhatsApp use was also associated with lower negative affect and fewer mental health problems.
In contrast, usage of X, Instagram, and TikTok was generally associated with lower happiness and higher levels of negative affect and mental health issues. Instagram use, in particular, was also linked to poorer life evaluations.
Researchers said platforms that facilitate direct social interaction tend to have more positive effects, especially in societies with strong social networks, while algorithmic content platforms show less favourable outcomes.
The study also found that moderate social media use may be beneficial. Limited use of up to an hour per day was linked to higher life satisfaction compared to no use at all, excluding those without internet access.
Jan-Emmanuel De Neve, director of the Wellbeing Research Centre, described the findings as a “Goldilocks” effect, suggesting that balanced usage may be optimal.
The report added that many people use social media primarily because others do, and noted that reduced usage could improve overall well-being for a significant number of users.