P-637 - Impact of social networks on mental health: a case report and literature review

Abstract

Internet addiction is becoming a serious mental health problem in some countries, and has been proposed for inclusion in DSM-V. Social network sites (SNS) are proliferating and have attracted millions. However, there has been recent concern about potential abuse of social web, suggesting that “Facebook addiction” could be another subcategory of the spectrum of Internet addiction disorders. Unfortunately, there is sparse data to show whether SNS are of benefit or detriment to mental health. 1. Exemplify how excessive use of SNS may lead to dysfunction. 2. Summarize recent knowledge on the impact SNS may have on mental health. We present a case of a 14-year-old adolescent who was referred to our institution due to excessive Internet/Facebook use, leading to some risky behaviors. Subsequently, we embark on a literature review about outcomes on mental health associated with SNS use. We conducted a literature review of journal articles from EMBASE, MEDLINE and PSYCINFO, using the keywords “social network”, “Facebook” and “addiction”. Papers published from 2006 to 2011 were selected on the basis of relevant information contained in the title/abstract. A brief summary of all relevant articles shall be presented in table format. Nowadays Facebook is the most popular SNS, allowing users to real-time interaction and increased socialization, being used for personal, academic or work purposes. Personal information on SNS can be maliciously used by others, and may reflect user's habits, personality traits and psychopathology. Mental health professionals should be aware of Internet addiction disorders.