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Volume-12 Number-1, 2025 / Review Article

Effects of Excessive Social Media Use on Neurotransmitter Levels and Mental Health: A Neurobiological Meta-Analysis

Author:
Syed Mustafa Kazmi
Department of Anatomy, American University of Barbados School of Medicine, Wildey, Bridgetown, Barbados
A.Q. Jilani
Department of Psychiatry, Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, U.P., India
Sharique Ahmad
Department of Pathology, Era’s Lucknow Medical College and Hospital, Era University, Lucknow, U.P., India
Priyesh Srivastava
Department of Pathology, Era’s Lucknow Medical College and Hospital, Era University, Lucknow, U.P., India
Kritika Pandey
Department of Pathology, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, U.P., India
Subuhi Anwar
Department of Pathology, Era’s Lucknow Medical College and Hospital, Era University, Lucknow, U.P., India
Abstract:
Background: The sudden surge in the popularity of social media has generated serious neurobiological and psychological issues. Recent studies indicate that heightened use of digital media reflects parallels with behaviours associated with substance addiction and behavioural addictions, especially through the alteration of neurotransmitter systems.
Objective: To critically analyze the impact of social media overuse on key neurotransmitters dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin and on the implications for behavioural addiction, emotional regulation, and mental health.
Methodology: A systematic review of literature was conducted using peer-reviewed articles from 2010 to 2024. Key internet-based scientific databases, such as PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and PsycINFO, were used. Identification of relevant studies was made easier by the use of keywords like "social media addiction," "neurotransmitters," "dopamine and reward," "serotonin and mood," "oxytocin and bonding," and "neuroimaging and digital behaviour."
Results: The analysis revealed that: Dopamine: Social media sites are designed to exploit reward feedback systems, leading to desensitization to dopamine and compulsive usage patterns. Serotonin: Negative comparisons and consumption of preferred information reduce serotonin activity, thus making one more vulnerable to depression and anxiety.
Oxytocin: Cyber contact is less profound than direct contact, preventing oxytocin release and facilitating loneliness and social isolation. Neuroimaging studies revealed significant alterations in brain structure and function, especially in adolescents, which underscores their heightened vulnerability to environmental stimuli.
Conclusions: Dysregulation of dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin networks due to excessive use of social media is associated with behavioural addiction and deteriorating emotional and social well-being. Interventions like digital literacy education, clinical evaluation, platform redesign, and offline activation promotion are required. Future research must investigate genetic vulnerability, long-term neural effect, and the outcomes of digital detox interventions.
Keywords:
Digital platforms, Digital competence, Dopamine, Oxytocin, Neurobiological processes, Psychological well-being, Serotonin.

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Copyright (c) 2026 Era's Journal of Medical Research

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Download PDF View in DOI 10.24041/ejmr.2025.11