The literature indicates that there is a relationship between social media addiction and psychological stress. However, there is still limited understanding of the specific ways in which social media addiction leads to psychological distress. This study examines the mediating role of doomscrolling in the relationship between social media addiction and psychological stress. In the 2022-2023 academic year, a sample of 460 university students (358 women, 78%, and 102 men, 22%) aged between 18 and 30 was analyzed using snowball sampling. The study utilized the Bergen Social Media Addiction Scale, the Doomscrolling Scale, and the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21) with a structural equation model. Findings indicated a positive association between social media addiction, psychological distress, and doomscrolling. Moreover, doomscrolling was also associated with increased psychological distress. Importantly, the connection between SMA and psychological distress was mediated by doomscrolling, underscoring its role as an intermediary factor. These findings suggest that social media addiction contributes to psychological distress, with doomscrolling further intensifying this effect. The study highlights the need for interventions to reduce both social media addiction and doomscrolling behaviors. Raising awareness and encouraging healthier social media habits through educational programs and media campaigns are crucial to safeguarding mental health.