A Neuropsychiatrist at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Teaching Hospital, Bauchi State, North East Nigeria, Dr Adamu Babaji, has warned that frequent social media use increases the risk of mental health disorders.
He said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Thursday in Bauchi and harped on the need to prioritise active participation in physical activities. The expert said persistent engagement in social media contributes to psychiatric cases, especially among the youth.
According to him, studies have established a strong link between heavy social media use and increased risk of depression, anxiety, and loneliness, among others.
The neuropsychiatrist cautioned people against adverse social media use to improve their mental health. “Social media users should be moderate in their activities. Social media is another leading cause of intellectual disorder. Users tend to withdraw from social activities, and engagements, and become isolated and attached to their gadgets. This is not healthy as social interaction is good for mental health,” he advised. Babaji also urged parents and guardians to counsel their wards on the use of social media to limit the risks.
