People who post on social media during the night are more likely to experience lower mental wellbeing, according to new research. The study, conducted by academics at the University of Bristol, found that those who frequently posted between 11pm and 5am were more likely to report symptoms of depression and anxiety than those active during the day. Researchers said the findings highlight how late-night social media use could negatively affect mood and sleep quality.
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The study examined more than 18,000 tweets from 310 participants as part of the long-running Children of the 90s project, also known as the Avon Longitudinal Study of Children and Parents. The results showed that the timing of social media activity explained nearly two per cent of the variation in mental wellbeing among users. While the association with depression and anxiety was less pronounced, researchers noted that nighttime posting still posed a significant risk to mental health.
Experts suggested that overnight social media use may delay sleep onset and reduce sleep quality. Blue light emitted from smartphones can inhibit melatonin production, while the act of posting and engaging online can lead to cognitive stimulation that keeps users awake. Together, these factors may disrupt rest and contribute to poorer emotional resilience and wellbeing.
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Lead author Daniel Joinson said the research underscores the importance of examining not just how often people use social media, but when they do so. “Whilst social media is often treated like a monolith, its impact on mental health will depend on the exact behaviours users perform and their experiences on these platforms,” he said. “Our findings highlight the potential harm of a very specific behaviour – nighttime content posting – and could inform interventions to reduce its impact while promoting healthier online habits.”
