During the summer, students from across the United States visit Indiana University in Bloomington to attend lectures, conferences and internships. As they walk to their destinations, many are seen staring down at their cellphones—usually scrolling through social media.

According to research by the University of Maine, there are approximately 4.8 billion social media users worldwide. On average, people spend two hours and 24 minutes on these platforms each day. Social media allows individuals to create and share content while interacting with others in a fast-paced, internet-based environment.

With digital platforms becoming a dominant force in everyday life, students from both high school and IU reflected on the impact social media has had on them—sharing personal stories that highlight both the positives and the negatives of the technology.

“I think the connection aspect of social media has had a really positive impact,” said Maddy Dickerson, a team leader for IU orientation. “I can see what my friends that I’ve made over my lifetime are going through and doing. I can root for them from afar.”

Dickerson said she primarily uses Instagram and TikTok—two platforms driven by short-form, algorithmic content. While she acknowledged the downsides, she emphasized the creative inspiration social media offers.

“It also influences my craftiness and resourcefulness,” she said. “I really love looking at crafts and learning different DIY things from social media to make my life easier.”

While platforms like Instagram can make users feel connected and inspired, they can also lead to feelings of isolation. A study by the National Institutes of Health found that 48.3% of social media users surveyed reported symptoms of depression, and 22.6% showed signs of anxiety.

“I used to have Instagram, but I deleted it because I just realized it wasn’t good for my mental health,” said Simran Baidwan, a managing editor and participant in IU Bloomington’s High School Journalism Institute.

Baidwan opened up about the hours she used to spend on the app and how it led to constant comparisons that affected her self-esteem.

“I’m more confident in myself because when you are on Instagram, you’re seeing people’s lives—and sometimes it’s not the most accurate picture,” she said.

Stanford Medicine reports that social media use is only expected to increase, as the platforms are designed to release dopamine and create habit-forming behaviors. Still, some students are aware of the influence social media has on them and reflect on whether they could step away from it.

“I could, but I would have to be forced,” said Ella Meador, a rising junior at IU Bloomington. “Like, if I have the power to download a social media app again, I’m going to do it.”