Cyberpsychology and its Impact on Mental Health

Background and Objective: The rapid evolution of digital technology has significantly altered human behavior, communication, and mental health. Cyberpsychology, an interdisciplinary field examining the psychological effects of technology, explores both the positive and negative impacts of digital tools such as social media, virtual reality (VR), and artificial intelligence (AI) on mental health. This review aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of cyberpsychology’s historical development, its current role in mental health, and the future opportunities and challenges presented by emerging technologies. Materials and Methods: A review of existing literature, including peer-reviewed studies and meta-analyses, was conducted to explore the impact of digital technology on mental health, particularly teletherapy, VR, online peer support, and risks such as digital addiction, social comparison, and cyberbullying. Results: Positive impacts of digital technology include increased access to mental health care through teletherapy platforms (e.g., BetterHelp) and VR’s success in exposure therapy for anxiety and PTSD, showing a 40% symptom reduction. Mental health apps and online communities also provide scalable, affordable support, reducing loneliness and stigma. Conversely, excessive screen use exacerbates social comparison, cyberbullying, and Internet Addiction Disorder (IAD), particularly among adolescents. Neuroscientific studies link digital overuse to dopamine dysregulation, prefrontal cortex alterations, and cognitive overload, leading to impaired decision-making, emotional regulation, and concentration. Conclusions: While digital technology presents innovative solutions for mental health care, its risks must be mitigated through responsible implementation and collaboration among policymakers, researchers, and clinicians. By promoting ethical use and healthier digital habits, cyberpsychology can play a crucial role in advancing mental health care in an equitable and sustainable way.