Likes, shares and tweets - scrolling is harming well-being

Once upon a time, in an age dominated by social media, the lives of teenagers and their parents became intertwined in a complex web of likes, shares, and tweets.

Mental health concerns are soaring, and everyone from parents to educators are left pondering the role of social media in this troubling trend.

It is a conversation that needed to happen, and the stakes are high.

In 2023, U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy stepped onto the scene with serious revelations about the impact of social media on young people's mental health. He shared research suggesting that excessive scrolling could actually be harming our well-being. Alongside him, the American Psychological Association echoed these findings, highlighting the urgent need for guidelines that would provide some safety for teens navigating the online world.

The Good ...

Yet, not all was doom and gloom. The reality of social media is nuanced and layered. While there are valid concerns about its impact, there are also bright spots that can’t be overlooked.

Dr. Linda Mayes from Yale pointed out that the challenges today aren’t much different from when television first became mainstream. Change requires adaptation.

How could families work together to navigate this modern challenge?

What’s truly happening with social media and mental health?

Dr. Murthy’s research pointed to a couple of critical themes—specifically, how much time teens spend online and what kinds of content they engage with.

For teenagers, caught in a delicate stage of self-discovery, social media can be a double-edged sword. Engaging with negative content can spiral into serious issues, especially when now

There is a silver lining. Many teens find solace online, using social media as a tool to connect with others and build communities.

According to the Pew Research Center, a significant number of teens feel that social media increases their sense of belonging and offers support when times get tough.

It serves as a canvas for creativity and self-expression, much like those long conversations on the phone that have now faded into history. When used wisely, it can strengthen bonds and foster meaningful relationships.

But with the positives come the negatives.

Studies are beginning to reveal a troubling trend:

• Teens who spend more than three hours each day on social media face higher risks of depression and anxiety. This is especially true for girls and those already grappling with mental health challenges.
• The impact of cyberbullying and the relentless pressure of unrealistic body ideals shadow many online interactions—a reminder of the darker sides of this seemingly innocent space.
• The content is often harmful and dangerous. Posts can alter a teenager’s mood or self-perception, underscoring the need for parents to be vigilant about their children's online activity.

So how could parents help?

I am proposing that the answer lay in the skills of communication and collaboration.

Parents now I am sure, understand that while most platforms suggest age 13 as the minimum, children even younger are finding ways to get involved.

The cultivation of healthier habits is so important.

• For example during family meals or right before bedtime, family time is importnant - not allowing devices and encouraging face-to-face conversations. Good sleep, is crucial for mental health.
• Open conversations creating an atmosphere where discussions about online experiences flow freely, avoiding restrictive monitoring.
• Developing trust so that teens are comfortable coming to their parents when things got tough online.
• Instead of accusations, gentle inquiries encouraged dialogue - inviting teens to reflect on their own habits.

Setting the right example is invaluable.

Parents should lead by example, managing their screen time and showing their teens the importance of balance in a world overflowing with digital distractions.

Together, parents and teens need to set out on a journey to better understand the role of social media in their lives.

They need to create the path to healthy online experiences by staying informed, having open conversations, and establishing appropriate boundaries.

By being proactive and working together, they can forge a bond that helped each other navigate the complexities of social media, cultivating a safe and supportive online environment.

In this rapidly evolving landscape, balance and open dialogue needs to became the new norm.

The story has only just began, and as they continued to grow and learn together, families discovered that navigating the digital age required constant communication, understanding, and above all, compassion.

More on impacts of social media on self esteem and cognitive ability will follow in the next article.

Dr Tassos Anastasiades