New research from the American Psychological Association links social media use and skyrocketing rates of mental health issues among people under the age of 26.

Researchers say younger adults are experiencing serious psychological distress, major depression or suicidal thoughts because of what they see their peers doing on social media, leaving them feeling socially isolated.

Experts say social media is a relatively new medium and that the research is just beginning.

"It's a new frontier," says Dr. Victor Fornari, an adolescent psychiatrist. "We don't really know the full extent of what the impact of social media has on youth."

Young adults who spoke with News 12 agree, saying they spend much less time connecting with their friends in person and more time on their phones.

Experts say parents should keep track of their children's phone time, and for older adults, it's important to keep in mind that how people portray themselves on social media is not always a realistic picture.

The research also says that even though mental health issues have increased in adults under age 26, the trend is basically nonexistent among adults over age 26.