Author: Dr. Moumita Mitra
DOI Link: https://doi.org/10.70798/PP/020400001
Abstract: The digital age has revolutionized how young people communicate, learn, socialize, and perceive the world. Social media platforms, online gaming, virtual classrooms, and digital entertainment environments have become integral components of youth culture. While these technologies offer unprecedented opportunities for learning, creativity, self-expression, and global connectivity, they also pose growing concerns for mental well-being. Rising rates of anxiety, depression, cyberbullying, sleep deprivation, internet addiction, body-image dissatisfaction, and academic stress have intensified scholarly debates about the psychological impacts of constant digital exposure. This research article explores the complex patterns of digital engagement among youth, identifies socio-psychological pressures created by digital ecosystems, and evaluates existing and emerging policy responses across education, healthcare, and governance sectors. Anchored in developmental psychology, media studies, and mental health research, it provides an extensive, multidimensional examination of how digital life shapes youth identity, cognition, emotions, and behavior. The paper concludes with a comprehensive framework for digital well-being, urging coordinated efforts among policymakers, educators, parents, and technology industries to safeguard youth mental health in an increasingly digital future.
Keywords: Youth Mental Health, Digital Engagement, Cyberpsychology, Social Media Impact, Policy Interventions.
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