DIGITAL COMMUNITIES AND MENTAL HEALTH IN THE AGE OF TECHNOLOGY

Abstract

The widespread use of digital media, especially during childhood and adolescence, raises significant concerns regarding its effects on physical, mental, and psychosocial health. Although technology provides educational and communication benefits, excessive and problematic use has been associated with increased symptoms of anxiety, depression, and self-injurious behaviors among vulnerable individuals. Problematic internet use, including excessive social networking and cyberbullying, may further exacerbate existing psychiatric conditions. Therefore, healthcare professionals should emphasize preventive strategies, including parental supervision and screen-time regulation, to promote healthy digital habits. More recently, the rapid growth of social media content related to dissociative identity disorder (DID) has been associated with an increase in self-diagnosis among adolescents and young adults seeking clinical confirmation of their perceived symptoms.