From Social Media to Mental Well-being: Modelling the Spread of Emotion in Online Networks

This research explores how affective information (particularly sentiment related to depression) spreads through online social networks and what that means beyond the academic context. The work is framed by infodemiology and emotional contagion theories, and identifies emotional reinforcement as a phenomenon where socially connected individuals experience intensified, longer-lasting shared emotion when they hold the same diagnosis and emotional state, with particular relevance for people experiencing depression. The research has since informed conversations with social media users about platform developers, mental health practitioners and policymakers.

The work details opportunities advocating for user-controlled tools that reduce algorithmic influence, as well as producing tools for individuals experiencing mental health concerns through the information obtained from social platforms. The work has also reached a wider public audience through national and local media coverage, with further pathways for impact detailing collaboration with other researchers and funders to advance digital well-being.