Wahyu Waseso; Indra Dwiyanto Wibowo
Social media has become integral to the daily lives of Generation Z (Gen Z) in Indonesia, with intensive daily usage contributing to significant mental health concerns. This narrative review synthesizes evidence from the literature published between 2021 and 2026 to examine the primary mechanisms social comparison and fear of missing out (FOMO) underlying the negative effects of social media on mental health, including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, sleep disturbances, and social isolation. Drawing from 15 key open-access articles (including 7 Indonesia-specific studies and 8 global comparisons), social comparison through curated content on platforms such as Instagram and Facebook was consistently associated with diminished self-satisfaction and heightened dissatisfaction. FOMO, particularly amplified by fast-scrolling algorithms on TikTok, promoted compulsive behaviors such as doomscrolling and exacerbated emotional distress. Digital wellness strategies, including digital detox, mindful usage, and media literacy, showed promising potential for mitigation, although long-term effectiveness remains limited in the Indonesian context. Notable research gaps include the scarcity of longitudinal studies, culturally tailored interventions, and data from rural or non-urban populations. This review recommends integrating digital literacy education into school curricula and developing community-based mental health programs to address risks in the 2025–2026 digital era. The findings offer insights for prevention and intervention strategies targeting Gen Z mental health in Indonesia.