This work presents a comprehensive literature review and real-world survey analysis examining the intricate relationship between communal media and psychological concerns within human–computer interaction (HCI). By systematically categorizing research from 1995 to 2023, we observe a significant increase in studies, reflecting the growing recognition of communal media’s impact on psychological well-being. Our review delves into various HCI aspects, including demographic effects, emotional sentiment analysis, online social networking, and communal media use intensity. A real-world survey focusing on TikTok users reveals diverse user perspectives on safety, privacy, and the platform’s impact on creativity and mental health. The data highlights a demographic predominance of young adults aged 16–24, with creativity, leisure, and content discovery being primary engagement motivators. Positive impacts such as creative inspiration and distraction from worries are contrasted with concerns over privacy invasion, harm to underaged users, and addiction. Correlation analysis underscores the complex interplay between user experiences and perceptions. Future research should prioritize enhancing privacy and safety measures, educational campaigns, and in-depth studies on the long-term psychological impacts of TikTok usage. Additionally, exploring platform modifications and conducting longitudinal and cross-platform studies will help create a safer and more engaging social media environment. This work contributes significantly to the expanding HCI body of knowledge, providing a robust foundation for future research to inform policies and interventions promoting positive psychological outcomes in the digital age.