Beyond the filter: Impact of popularity on the mental health of social media influencers

Abstract

Objective This study examines the emotional state and interpersonal relationships of social media influencers, focusing on the psychological effects of their popularity and engagement. Despite increased awareness of mental health issues, influencers remain underrepresented in research. Barriers such as low mental health literacy, stigma, access issues, and the pressure to maintain virtual personas highlight the need for this investigation. This research addresses these gaps by systematically examining the impact of social media on influencers’ mental health. Methods An online survey was conducted using the positive and negative affect schedule (PANAS) and the Relationship Structures Questionnaire (ECR-RS). The target audience was social media influencers from various countries, with a specific focus on the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Participants were recruited from 2 November 2022, to 1 March 2023, through email, SMS, and direct messages on social media platforms. Statistical analyses included t -tests, ANOVA, and Pearson correlation coefficients. Results A total of 161 social media influencers completed the survey. A significant association was found between extended social media usage and heightened negative emotions among influencers spending more than 5 hours daily on these platforms ( p < .05). Influencers earning less than $10,000 from social media reported the lowest negative feeling scores. However, higher income levels correlated with increased relationship avoidance and anxiety scores (e.g., p < .01 for avoidance and anxiety from parents and best friends). Additionally, an increase in the number of followers was associated with increased negative emotions ( p = .001). Conclusion Our study provides compelling insights into the well-being, emotions, and relationship quality of social media influencers. It underscores the urgency of prioritizing their mental well-being on a global scale, helping them navigate the challenges of their digital careers while maintaining a positive impact on their audiences.