During the Covid pandemic many children were isolated from schools and friends. Children found the internet and gaming a way to communicate and keep updated with their peers. Parents quickly became more aware of the dangers of social media and the things that they can do to protect their children from various online dangers. These dangers are rising each and every day. Things such as: – cyber bullying, sleep disturbances, dangerous content online, grooming, and privacy concerns. Social media allows children to have any information that the require available to them at the click of a button. But is social media and the internet affecting our children’s mental health? 

How online media affects children’s mental health

The Ofcom report suggested that the positive impact children were gaining from social media was in decline and that more children were now using social media for view content rather than communicating with friends. Bennardo’s stated that one third of children between the ages of five to ten had been engaged with unsuitable content online.  Negative online content and experiences can lead children into experiencing low mood, self-harm, suicide, and mental ill health, reduced confidence, and self-esteem. 

Children are at risk of becoming addicted to the world wide web and families may experience significantly less amount of time together due to the additional social media use. Charities are worried that this causes problems related to mental health and emotional wellbeing within children. Children are hearing less communication within the home environment whilst having shorter times interacting with family members. Some fears linked to an increased social media usage includes the reduction of children’s creative thinking, the reduction of visual interactions and then decline in emotional regulation. 

Children and young people are struggling to regulate routines due to their own social media habits.  Everyday routines are changing as children are filling their time with social media content. Sleep routines are changing for children. Many will often stay awake until early hours of the morning playing games and interacting with the online world. The online world that doesn’t sleep.

How online media affects children’s mental health 

Social media content can open a new world for children, offering information at their fingertips. It can be a valuable source of information and support. Children can build up their own online identities and self-expressions. Different media platforms can help children and young people interact across different geological areas, whilst allowing them to find information and skills they may need. 

Humorous and safe content can even provide a meaningful connection to peers and the wider community, helping to avoid depression/ anxious states.

How can I protect my child?

Ensure that all devices have protection on them and that your child is only accessing information and apps that are age appropriate. 

Monitor what your children are looking at and accessing on their different social media accounts

Have conversations with your child about online content and their mental health. 

Encourage switching off times and face to face times with friends/ family and community.

If you think your teen is experiencing signs or symptoms of anxiety or depression related to social media use, reach out and ask for help and support.