The University of the Commonwealth Caribbean (UCC) is urging greater national attention to the impact of social media on mental health, following a research presentation that examined social media usage and psychological well-being among Jamaicans.

In a virtual session known as the Brown Bag Series, hosted by the University’s College of Graduate Studies and Research (CGSR) on Thursday, May 21, 2026, Dr Paul Andrew Bourne explored how age, gender and social media usage relate to mental health outcomes in Jamaica.

According to the findings presented, 87.4% of respondents identified as active social media users, with most Jamaicans reporting daily usage of between zero and four hours. Youth, however, reported significantly higher usage, averaging approximately six hours daily, with some reporting between six and 11 hours per day. Adults averaged approximately 3.1 hours daily, while seniors averaged 2.4 hours.

“The issue of social media is something that we cannot avoid,” Dr Bourne stated during the presentation. He noted that while social media provides opportunities for communication, information-sharing, entrepreneurship and public engagement, excessive use raises concerns for mental health and overall well-being.

Dr Bourne emphasised that the concern is not simply whether individuals use social media, or how many platforms they use, but how much time they spend online and how that time is used. 

“The more hours you spend online, the more likely it is that your psychological health is deteriorating,” he remarked. “We should say to consumers: usage and moderation are important.”

The discussion highlighted the need for institutions, educators, parents and policymakers to play a more active role in guiding healthier digital habits, particularly as more young people leverage social media platforms for entrepreneurship and income generation.

Speaking on the series, Dean of the College of Graduate Studies and Research, Dr Andrea Sutherland, said the discussion reflects the importance of continued research into issues affecting national development and personal well-being.

“Research such as this is critical in helping society better understand the evolving relationship between technology and human behaviour. The findings presented during this session reinforce the importance of promoting balanced digital engagement and encouraging continued dialogue around mental health and wellness in Jamaica,” she shared.

The UCC Brown Bag Series is a monthly forum designed to foster research dissemination, collaboration and public dialogue on issues impacting Jamaica and the wider region.