Journals Information
Universal Journal of Public Health Vol. 13(6), pp. 1580 - 1588
DOI: 10.13189/ujph.2025.130617
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Reels Addiction and Mental Health: A Questionnaire-Based Study on Its Psychological Impact
Sangeeth Kumar A. 1,*, Amalan R. 2, Bharathi Raj K. 3, Devibala B. 4, Jayapaul V. L. 1, Sam Nesamony 5, Rupesh Kotte 6, Nisha M. 7
1 Department of English, St. Joseph's College, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu-620002, India
2 Department of English, Government College of Engineering, Dharmapuri,Tamil Nadu, India
3 Department of English, Manonmaniam Sundaranar University College, Tisaiyanvilai, India
4 Department of English, CARE College of Arts and Science, India
5 Department of English Studies, SGT University, India
6 Department of English, Christ University, Bengaluru, India
7 Department of English, School of Social Sciences and Languages, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, India
ABSTRACT
Short-form videos, or "Reels," have become increasingly popular on social media platforms, serving both entertainment and informational purposes. However, excessive viewing of Reels can lead to negative effects. This study conducted a survey of 33 participants to examine how Reels addiction affects users. The results indicate that most participants watch Reels primarily for entertainment, and algorithm-driven suggestions encourage prolonged viewing. Overuse may lead to compulsive scrolling, which negatively affects productivity, emotional well-being, and real-life social engagement. The 33 participants shared their perspectives through responses submitted via Google Forms. Most reported that extended screen time resulted in physical discomfort, digital fatigue, and sleep disturbances. Regular overconsumption of such content has also been associated with reduced attention spans and increased procrastination, particularly in academic contexts. The design of social media platforms stimulates dopamine release, which reinforces habitual usage and increases the addictive nature of Reels. Additional concerns include the spread of misinformation, heightened cybersecurity risks, and threats to data privacy. Nevertheless, moderate engagement can enhance creativity and help relieve stress. To avoid harmful consequences, users are encouraged to set screen time limits and participate in offline activities. This study emphasizes the importance of adopting a balanced approach to Reels consumption, enabling users to enjoy its benefits while minimizing potential drawbacks.
KEYWORDS
Doomscrolling, Reels Addiction, Mental Health, Overscreen Usage, Media, Dopamine
Cite This Paper in IEEE or APA Citation Styles
(a). IEEE Format:
[1] Sangeeth Kumar A. , Amalan R. , Bharathi Raj K. , Devibala B. , Jayapaul V. L. , Sam Nesamony , Rupesh Kotte , Nisha M. , "Reels Addiction and Mental Health: A Questionnaire-Based Study on Its Psychological Impact," Universal Journal of Public Health, Vol. 13, No. 6, pp. 1580 - 1588, 2025. DOI: 10.13189/ujph.2025.130617.
(b). APA Format:
Sangeeth Kumar A. , Amalan R. , Bharathi Raj K. , Devibala B. , Jayapaul V. L. , Sam Nesamony , Rupesh Kotte , Nisha M. (2025). Reels Addiction and Mental Health: A Questionnaire-Based Study on Its Psychological Impact. Universal Journal of Public Health, 13(6), 1580 - 1588. DOI: 10.13189/ujph.2025.130617.