Relationship Between Social Media Addiction and Anxiety, Depression, and Loneliness among Young Adults in India

Abstract Objectives: This research investigates the correlational relationship between Social Media Addiction (SMA) and mental distress specifically anxiety, depression, and loneliness among Indian young adults. It provides empirical data regarding the impacts of digital dependency on the mental health spectrum of college students. Methods: A cross-sectional correlational design was utilized to collect data from 100 students at three major universities in North India. Standardized psychometric tools were employed, including the Bergen Social Media Addiction Scale (BSMAS), GAD-7, PHQ-9, and the UCLA Loneliness Scale (Version 3). Findings: Analysis revealed strong positive correlations between SMA and loneliness (r=0.67 , p<0.01), anxiety (r=0.62 , p<0.01), and depression (r=0.58 , p<0.01). Regression modeling established that these variables explain 54% of the variance in addiction levels (R2=0.54). Loneliness was the strongest predictor (β=0.42), highlighting its role as a primary driver of digital dependency. Novelty: This study introduces a unique 2026 dataset that shifts the academic discourse from simple usage metrics to precise psychological predictors, providing a localized foundation for targeted digital hygiene interventions in the Indian context. Keywords: Social Media Addiction, Mental Health India, Young Adult Psychology, Digital Dependency, Academic Performance, Social Isolation, Anxiety and Depression