New research reveals a concerning link between Twitter activity and rising anxiety levels. Scientists at the University of California tracked over 1,000 active Twitter users for six months. They found people spending more time scrolling through Twitter reported feeling significantly more anxious. The study measured anxiety using standard psychological surveys. These surveys were given at the start and the end of the research period. Researchers also monitored participants’ actual Twitter usage via a special app. This app logged time spent on the platform and engagement levels.
(Study Links Twitter Usage to Increased Anxiety)
The connection held even after accounting for factors like age, gender, and pre-existing mental health conditions. People who frequently checked Twitter throughout the day showed the strongest anxiety increases. Seeing large amounts of negative or conflict-heavy content appeared particularly impactful. Lead researcher Dr. Emily Chen explained the findings. “Our data shows a clear pattern. More time on Twitter correlates with higher anxiety scores weeks later. The constant stream of information and social comparison seems taxing.” The effect was most noticeable among users primarily following news and political accounts. Users following mostly hobby or interest groups showed smaller anxiety increases.
(Study Links Twitter Usage to Increased Anxiety)
The research team utilized a combination of self-reported data and objective app measurements. This approach strengthens confidence in the results. The findings add to growing evidence about social media’s complex effects on mental well-being. Previous studies hinted at similar links but often relied solely on user memories of usage. This new study captured real-time behavior. Experts not involved in the work called it a significant step. They note it highlights a potential mental health cost of heavy Twitter engagement. The research paper is published in the Journal of Behavioral Psychology. The team plans further investigations. They want to understand if specific Twitter features drive the anxiety spikes more than others.