Deepfakes and Social Media: The Impact on Mental Health and Well-being

As deepfake technology continues to advance, concerns are growing about its potential impact on mental health and well-being, particularly in the realm of social media. Deepfakes, which are synthetic media created using artificial intelligence to manipulate audio, video, or images, can be used to spread misinformation, perpetrate fraud, or even engage in cyberbullying and harassment. This article explores the psychological effects of deepfakes on individuals and society. It highlights the potential for deepfakes to exacerbate feelings of anxiety, depression, and distrust, as well as the challenges in distinguishing between real and fake content. The article also discusses the importance of media literacy and critical thinking skills in combating the negative effects of deepfakes. Additionally, it examines the role of social media platforms and policymakers in addressing this issue and implementing measures to protect users from harmful deepfake content.

Source: https://www.cnn.com/2025/01/02/health/deepfakes-social-media-wellness/index.html