The Relationship Between Social Media Use and Mental Health Among Gen Z Students

Background: High intensity of social media use among Gen Z university students may impact emotional stability, anxiety, depression, and stress levels. Objective: This study aims to investigate the relationship between social media use and mental health among Gen Z students at Universitas Nurul Jadid, Paiton, Probolinggo. Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional design was applied. Participants were selected using simple random sampling between January and March 2026. Data were collected via online questionnaires measuring social media use intensity and mental health outcomes using DASS-21. Data analysis was performed with univariate analysis and the Spearman correlation test. Results: The Spearman correlation coefficient was 0.482, indicating a moderate positive relationship between social media use and mental health issues. Higher social media use intensity is associated with increased symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression. Conclusion: Excessive social media use among Gen Z students affects mental health, highlighting the need for preventive strategies, digital literacy programs, and targeted psychological interventions