Digital devices can improve mental health by enabling social connection, support and access to care. However, they can also contribute to anxiety, harmful comparison, disrupted sleep and compulsive use, depending on how the devices and their digital systems are used.
This topic is part of the health context, including mental health, and is shared by SL and HL students.
| Positive effects | Negative effects |
|---|---|
| Messaging and video calls can reduce isolation by maintaining relationships across distance. | Constant notifications and pressure to respond can create stress or reduce concentration. |
| Telehealth services and mental health apps can make professional or peer support more accessible. | Unequal device, internet or service access can exclude some people and communities. |
| Online communities can provide belonging, self-expression and support, particularly for people who feel isolated locally. | Harassment, misinformation and exposure to harmful content can damage well-being. |
| Educational and relaxation content can support coping strategies. | Social comparison, engagement-driven recommendations and disrupted sleep may contribute to anxiety or low mood. |
The mechanism is not simply “screen time causes poor mental health.” That is a common misconception. Effects depend on factors such as the type of activity, content encountered, duration and timing of use, the user’s circumstances, and whether participation is active or passive.
System: Instagram is a digital media platform accessed through devices such as smartphones. Its algorithms rank and recommend posts and short videos.
Example specifics: Users may communicate with friends and find supportive communities, but recommendation systems may repeatedly promote highly engaging appearance-focused or distressing content.
Impacts and implications: Some users experience connection and creative expression, while others may experience comparison, harassment or sleep disruption. Going forward, stronger safety settings may reduce harm, but excessive restrictions could limit expression and access to support.
Exam technique: For an explain question, give a clear effect and its cause. For discuss or evaluate, present positive and negative effects, distinguish observed impacts from future implications, consider at least two stakeholder groups, and reach a supported, balanced conclusion.
