Real-life support is linked to reduced depression and anxiety Experts recommend that people reach out for real-life help and not rely on social media Seeking mental health support on social media is not helpful, according to a new study. The research published in Online survey The researchers conducted an online survey. More than 400 university students in the United States completed the survey. To identify the extent of their use of social media, and their level of social support in real life and on social media, the researchers used the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System scale for measuring the levels of depression, anxiety and social isolation among the students.