Abstract
The pandemic transformed global dynamics, intensifying social media use and resulting in diverse psychological consequences. Unlike general studies, this paper focuses on how these platforms specifically shape mental health, both worsening and easing distress. Although numerous studies report conflicting results, a comprehensive synthesis remains absent. This review addresses that gap by systematically analysing empirical research from 2020 to 2024 across four major databases. It explores how social media—not the pandemic itself—affected mental health during COVID-19, influencing emotions such as anxiety, stress, and loneliness. The synthesis demonstrates that digital platforms impact mental health through both negative (e.g., anxiety, stress) and positive (e.g., support, engagement) pathways. We examine the psychological effects of social media use during the pandemic, presenting an evidence-based synthesis that identifies six adverse outcomes—stress, anxiety, depression, loneliness, violence, and eating disorders—and six positive ones: engagement, fellowship, support, assurance, advice, and creativity. These dual outcomes underscore social media’s complex influence on mental health in crises. The paper identifies research gaps and suggests directions, including teletherapy, digital support, and countering misinformation. Based on the evidence presented, the paper also proposes economic and public policy implications aimed at mitigating digital psychological risks.