Daily Instagram Use Exceeds 1 Billion Hours, Raises Concerns Over Mental Health Impact

The average user spends around 53 minutes per day on the app, but some users spend up to 16 hours per day scrolling through their feeds. However, Adam Mosseri, Instagram’s CEO, has stated that using the platform for more than 16 hours a day is “problematic,” not necessarily an addiction. While some experts have expressed concerns about the potential negative impact of social media on mental health, particularly among young users, Mosseri argues that the key issue is excessive usage rather than addiction. Research suggests that prolonged use of Instagram can lead to feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and depression, but Mosseri believes that this is more related to the platform’s algorithm and content design rather than a psychological disorder. The company has taken steps to address concerns around user behavior, including introducing features like screen time tracking and limits on follow-backs. Despite these efforts, some critics argue that Instagram’s business model is designed to keep users engaged for as long as possible, perpetuating a cycle of excessive usage. Mosseri acknowledges that the platform needs to find a better balance between promoting engagement and protecting users’ well-being.