How Higher Social Media Use Can Negatively Impact Mental Health in Teens

The Pervasiveness of Social Media Among Teens

Despite concerns about its impact, social media use among teens remains high. A Pew Research Center survey found that some teens describe their social media use as “almost constant.” About 95% of teens ages 13 to 17 use social media, and more than one in three report using it almost constantly. The use of platforms like YouTube, TikTok, Snapchat, and Instagram is particularly prevalent among this age group​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​.

Adverse Mental Health Outcomes Linked to Social Media Use

Studies indicate that adolescents using social media more than three hours per day face twice the risk of experiencing poor mental health outcomes. High levels of social media use are linked to depression, anxiety, inadequate sleep, low self-esteem, poor body image, and eating disorder behaviors. Additionally, exposure to hate-based content and experiences of cyberbullying on social media platforms are common, contributing further to negative mental health impacts. These risks are more pronounced in teen girls and LGBTQ youth​​.

Adolescence: A Critical Period of Development

Adolescence is a critical developmental phase, characterized by significant brain and physiological changes. The nature of social media and its potential to influence identity formation, relationships, and autonomy can have profound effects during this vulnerable period. The U.S. Surgeon General’s 2023 advisory on social media and youth mental health highlights these concerns, underscoring the need for particular attention to social media’s impact during adolescence​​.

Potential Benefits of Social Media

While the focus is often on the negative impacts, it’s important to acknowledge that social media can also offer benefits. For marginalized young people, such as sexual and gender minorities, social media can provide valuable social support, aid in identity development, and serve as a gateway to mental health care or online social support​​.

An Urgent Call to Action

The growing evidence of social media’s potential harm to children and youth has prompted an urgent call to action from the Surgeon General. This call to action involves policymakers, technology companies, parents, and other stakeholders to ensure the online safety and well-being of young people​​.

Conclusion

The pervasive use of social media among teens poses significant mental health challenges. While there are benefits, the risks associated with excessive use, particularly in terms of mental health outcomes like depression, anxiety, and self-esteem issues, cannot be overlooked. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach involving parents, educators, policymakers, and the teens themselves.

Sources:

• Pew Research Center: “Teens, Social Media and Technology 2023″​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​
• The Annie E. Casey Foundation: “Social Media and Teen Mental Health”​​​​​​