The use of social media and its impact on the mental health of the Saudi Arabian community.

Abstract

Abstract Background: The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) is a nation with unique cultural, geographical, and economic features, predominantly characterized by a young Muslim population. In recent years, significant modernization and urbanization have influenced Saudis' lifestyles and mental health. Cultural attitudes and economic factors shape these mental health issues, with social media playing a pivotal role in societal interactions and mental well-being. Objectives: This study systematically reviewed the current peer-reviewed literature on the impact of social media on the mental health of the Saudi Arabian community. The goal was to synthesize key findings on both the positive and negative effects of social media use, offering insights for individuals, educators, policymakers, and healthcare systems to encourage healthier technology usage and enhance mental healthcare access. Search Strategy: A systematic search was conducted using keywords and Boolean operators across MEDLINE, PubMed, CINAHL, and PsycINFO databases to identify relevant peer-reviewed literature. The inclusion criteria focused on articles published between 2018 and 2024, written in English, and conducted in Saudi Arabia, specifically cross-sectional studies. Results: Thirteen articles met the inclusion criteria and were critically assessed using the appraisal tool for cross-sectional studies (AXIS). The studies were generally of acceptable quality, with well-defined research questions and appropriate methodologies. The findings were categorized into seven themes: prevalence of mental health issues, social media addiction and psychological distress, gender disparities, impact on adolescents, misinformation, the complex relationship with well-being, and family dynamics within the cultural context. Conclusion: This review highlighted that while social media fosters communication and information sharing, it also correlates with addiction, psychological distress, and misinformation. High rates of mental health issues, particularly among healthcare professionals and adolescents, underscore the need for targeted interventions and policies. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies and interdisciplinary collaborations to effectively understand and address these impacts.