The surge in social media use has prompted considerable debate about its impact on youth mental health, particularly concerning suicide risk. As stewards of young people’s well-being, it is imperative to tackle these issues with robust research and strategic policy interventions. According to The Guardian, “Teens are so emotionally invested in social media that a fifth will wake up at night and log on. This emotional investment can lead to increased anxiety and depression due to the pressure to be constantly available and perfect.”

Current studies outline a complex relationship between social media and mental health outcomes, revealing both potential risks, such as disrupted sleep and unhealthy comparisons, and benefits like enhanced social support. Unfortunately, the ambiguity surrounding these effects stems from a lack of comprehensive data. The Mayo Clinic notes that “Social media doesn’t affect all teens the same way. Use of social media is linked with healthy and unhealthy effects on mental health. These effects vary from one teenager to another, depending on what they see and do online, and their personal circumstances.”

The ever-evolving landscape of social media, characterised by personalised experiences, further complicates our understanding. More nuanced research is essential, focusing on content type and usage context rather than mere screen time. Central to this endeavour is the call for greater transparency from social media companies. Access to detailed engagement metrics and content-level data is crucial for developing effective intervention strategies and informed policies.

As we navigate these challenges, creating safe digital environments for youth is paramount. By balancing the risks and rewards of social media use, and advocating for responsible data practices, we can work towards safeguarding the mental health of young people in our digital age.

Source: Jama Network