Social Media Integration and Mental Well-Being in Emerging Adulthood

Background: The growing use of social media has raised interest in its influence on psychological and social factors, though evidence regarding links with self-esteem, loneliness, gender, and relationship status is mixed. Objective: This study explored these associations in the Indian context among emerging adults. Methods: A convenient sample of 405 working professionals aged 21–25 years (M = 25.3±2.6) completed standardized measures of social media use, loneliness, and self-esteem. Results: Daily time on social media (M = 158±136 minutes) showed a weak but significant positive correlation with usage patterns, integration into daily habits, and preference for online communication. Less lonely individuals spent more time on social media (Mdn = 120, IQR = 120) than lonelier individuals (Mdn = 100, IQR = 75). Conclusion: Findings highlight evolving social media use among working professionals, underscoring the need for further research beyond student populations.