Social media and teenagers

Many adults link the rise in mental health problems amongst children to the use of social media. This has been reinforced by numerous newspaper and media headlines.

Yet it is really important to note that there is no reliable scientific evidence to support this link. Social media isn’t necessarily the issue - it can be a positive force for good when used intentionally and in moderation.

Parents and carers can make informed decisions about what’s best for their children’s health and wellbeing by understanding the pros and cons.

The opportunities

Social media has brought our world closer together, offering rich possibilities for real-time connection and many ways to learn and have fun. There are lots of positives for young people. These include:

• Networking and sharing information and experiences with friends
• Instant access to information
• A highly creative medium and gateway to the world
• A way to meet new people and connect with like-minded peers
• Access to the buying and selling of goods

The threats

The online world is vast, and it continues to expand at an incredible rate. With this growth comes a number of potential dangers to be mindful of. Threats to young people include: 

• Access to pornography and ‘hateful’ content 
• Gambling 
• Online grooming and sexting 
• Harassment, abuse and cyber-bullying

Supporting positive mental health

As adults, it’s important that we take time to understand the effect that social media use, and inhabiting an increasingly online world, can have on our young people’s mental health.

Many teenagers are vulnerable: they may be struggling with feelings of isolation, may have had to deal with difficult family situations, or may have experienced trauma in some form.

The online world can provide a much-needed outlet for teens; a safe place to turn to others for support and encouragement, and to share experiences. But it needs to be overseen.

Through open conversation and working together with our young people, we can set comfortable boundaries and build digitally healthy households.

Become a ‘digital role model’