Psychologists warn: Social media is making young people mentally ill!

Psychologists warn: Social media is making young people mentally ill!

Social media has become an integral part of many young people's everyday lives. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, WhatsApp and YouTube are present everywhere and invite interaction. But like Dr. Claudia Neumann, senior physician in the child and adolescent psychiatric outpatient clinic at the Alexius/Josef Hospital in Neuss, explains that the unregulated use of these digital offerings also poses risks. Young people in particular are at risk from the constant stimuli and digital exchange.

A central problem is that real encounters are increasingly being replaced by digital contacts. This constant online presence can put the brain under constant stress. The consequences for mental well-being often include sleep disorders, difficulty falling asleep and a feeling of constant availability. Studies show that 11% of teenagers show signs of problematic behavior when using social media. Girls aged 12 to 16 are particularly affected, as they not only start using these platforms earlier, but also spend more time on them and compare themselves more to idealized body images, which can lead to a distorted view of themselves.

Media competence as key

To counteract these challenges, experts recommend teaching media skills at an early stage. The relevance of the parental home is often lost, but parents in particular should be aware of the positive and negative aspects of using social media. Clear rules for media use should be established in calm conversations. Studies show that nine out of ten young people say they spend too much time on social networks. A holistic reflection by parents of their own usage behavior could have a supportive effect here.

Psychologist Till Kornisch emphasizes that although the consequences of these problems are not mental illnesses, they can increase the risk of this. The need for social interaction, which is particularly pronounced among 15-year-old girls (44% are constantly in touch with friends online), highlights the urgency of taking appropriate measures.

Scientific findings and need for action

The World Health Organization (WHO) underlines the need for media literacy and preventive measures in various reports. Dr. Hans Henri P. Kluge from the WHO warns of the possible consequences of problematic behavior in the digital space, which can manifest itself in lower mental well-being and higher substance use. Open dialogue about digital well-being should be encouraged in both families and schools.

The hands of parents and society are therefore required! Interventions should be age-appropriate and gender-sensitive. Together, we can make the digital space safer and healthier, empowering young people to make informed decisions about their online activities.

Overall, it shows that social media not only creates connections in our digital world, but also brings challenges. A combination of education, prevention and active exchange can help to overcome the upcoming difficulties and promote the well-being of young people. Given the ever-growing influence of social media, it is more important than ever to work together on solutions.