Background: The sudden surge in the popularity of social media has generated serious neurobiological and psychological issues. Recent studies indicate that heightened use of digital media reflects parallels with behaviours associated with substance addiction and behavioural addictions, especially through the alteration of neurotransmitter systems. Objective: To critically analyze the impact of social media overuse on key neurotransmitters dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin and on the implications for behavioural addiction, emotional regulation, and mental health. Methodology: A systematic review of literature was conducted using peer-reviewed articles from 2010 to 2024. Key internet-based scientific databases, such as PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and PsycINFO, were used. Identification of relevant studies was made easier by the use of keywords like "social media addiction," "neurotransmitters," "dopamine and reward," "serotonin and mood," "oxytocin and bonding," and "neuroimaging and digital behaviour." Results: The analysis revealed that: Dopamine: Social media sites are designed to exploit reward feedback systems, leading to desensitization to dopamine and compulsive usage patterns. Serotonin: Negative comparisons and consumption of preferred information reduce serotonin activity, thus making one more vulnerable to depression and anxiety. Oxytocin: Cyber contact is less profound than direct contact, preventing oxytocin release and facilitating loneliness and social isolation. Neuroimaging studies revealed significant alterations in brain structure and function, especially in adolescents, which underscores their heightened vulnerability to environmental stimuli. Conclusions: Dysregulation of dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin networks due to excessive use of social media is associated with behavioural addiction and deteriorating emotional and social well-being. Interventions like digital literacy education, clinical evaluation, platform redesign, and offline activation promotion are required. Future research must investigate genetic vulnerability, long-term neural effect, and the outcomes of digital detox interventions.

This paper examines the impact of excessive social media usage on mental health and well-being, focusing on its potential to trigger antisocial behavior, deteriorate mental health, and foster addictive tendencies. Despite the label "social," social media can diminish social interactions, contributing to feelings of loneliness and heightened social anxiety. Neurologically, the brain's reward system responds to social media interactions with dopamine release, cultivating addictive behavior, especially among young users. Studies reveal direct links between extensive social media engagement and increased anxiety and depression. The intricate relationship between dopamine, digital engagement, and mental well-being underscores the vulnerability of younger individuals. Balancing the allure of virtual connection with the risks of addiction necessitates a mindful approach to social media usage, including time limits and the pursuit of diverse offline activities. This inquiry highlights the importance of informed engagement to preserve well-being in the era of pervasive social media.

Digital addiction, encompassing problematic use of the internet, smartphones, gaming, and social media, has emerged as a growing global public health concern. This narrative review synthesises current evidence on the epidemiology, neurobiological underpinnings, diagnostic challenges, health consequences, and management strategies for digital addiction. Prevalence estimates vary widely, with higher rates reported in low- and middle-income countries and among adolescents and university students. Neuroimaging and neurochemical studies demonstrate alterations in reward pathways and prefrontal control networks, mirroring mechanisms seen in substance use disorders (SUDs). Clinically, digital addiction contributes to sleep disruption, visual strain, musculoskeletal problems, psychiatric comorbidities, impaired academic and occupational functioning, and increased risk behaviours. Diagnosis remains challenging due to the absence of universally accepted criteria, though instruments such as Young's Internet Addiction Test (IAT), the Smartphone Addiction Scale (SAS), and newer culturally adapted tools show promise. Management approaches include early educational interventions, parental strategies, cognitive-behavioural therapy, mindfulness-based interventions, pharmacological options in select cases, and digital detox programmes, though evidence for long-term efficacy remains limited. Emerging artificial intelligence-driven psychoinformatics offers novel opportunities for early detection and personalised intervention. Overall, digital addiction represents a behavioural addiction with substantial biopsychosocial impacts, warranting greater clinical recognition, policy attention, and high-quality research to establish effective, scalable prevention and treatment strategies.