Adolescence, a pivotal bridge between childhood and adulthood, undergoes transformative phases marked by self-identity emergence, intricate social interactions, and emotional expansion. The advent of social media has dramatically altered this landscape, providing unprecedented communication avenues. This chapter explores the intricate interplay between social media use and adolescent mental well-being, examining both positive and negative dimensions. From fostering mental health awareness to the pernicious effects of cyberbullying, body image concerns, FOMO, and addiction, the multifaceted impacts are scrutinized.

The section on cyberbullying reveals its prevalence and profound emotional toll on victims, necessitating collaborative efforts from schools, parents, and policymakers to implement stringent anti-bullying measures. Body image concerns delve into the impact of idealized social media imagery on heightened dissatisfaction, leading to potential mental health issues. FOMO,a unique social media-driven phenomenon, contributes to feelings of inadequacy, loneliness, and dissatisfaction, with suggested strategies for mitigation.

The section on addiction explores the consequences of excessive social media use, emphasizing the need for comprehensive approaches such as education, awareness, and moderation. Contrary to negative perceptions, the positive aspects section highlights the constructive role of social media in addressing mental health challenges through online support communities and awareness campaigns.

The chapter concludes with strategies for healthy social media use, emphasizing the importance of digital literacy education to navigate online content responsibly. Setting healthy boundaries and promoting positive online communities emerge as crucial strategies, offering adolescents guidance for maintaining a balanced relationship with social media. This comprehensive exploration aims to equip readers, including adolescents, educators, parents, and policymakers, to navigate the digital landscape with resilience and foster holistic mental health in the 21st century.