Influence of Social Media Detox on Well‑Being and Self‑Esteem among University Students in Patna

Social media use is ubiquitous among university students and has been linked to both benefits and harms for psychological well‑being and self‑esteem. This study investigated the effect of a structured two‑week social media detox on subjective well‑being and self‑esteem among university students in Patna. Using a randomized controlled design, 200 undergraduate students (aged 18–24) were randomly assigned to either a detox intervention (n = 100) or an active control group (n = 100). Primary outcomes were psychological well‑being measured by the World Health Organization–Five Well‑Being Index (WHO‑5) and self‑esteem measured by the Rosenberg Self‑Esteem Scale (RSES), assessed at baseline, post‑intervention, and 4‑week follow‑up. Results showed significant Group × Time interactions for both well‑being and self‑esteem. The detox group exhibited a medium‑sized increase in WHO‑5 scores (d = 0.56, p < .001) and a modest increase in RSES (d = 0.41, p = .002). Reductions in perceived stress partially mediated improvements in well‑being. Participants also reported improved sleep quality and concentration. The intervention was feasible and acceptable. Implications for university mental health promotion are discussed.