This list's a lot of social media platforms, but not all of them For example, Discord is a huge one with teens!
BMJ in 2023 published research finding that spending at least 2hrs a day on social media doubled the use of alcohol consumption compared with less than two hours daily. Finding, also, that teens are particularly influenced by risky health behaviors on social media including unhealthy eating and increased offs of risky sexual activities (sexting, transactional sex, etc.).
In 2023, the Surgeon General issued a warning that social media is the main contributor to depression, anxiety, and other problems in teenagers. Of the 95% (ages 13-17) who say they use social media, 1/3 said they are scrolling, posting, or otherwise engaged constantly.
Bullying has also increased with the increase in social media usage. Check the images below!
Bottom Line: whether it be their computer or their pocket sized internet (phone), the time spent on social media platforms is rapidly impacting teens and pre-teens. Rising stats in youth depression, anxiety, substance use, and bullying are correlated with higher social media use.
Action Needed: find ways to restrict social media use for your kiddo(s). It is addictive, which means there can, believe it or not, be withdrawal reactions. After a prolonged absence from it, teens regularly report feeling better and happier.
