In the risk network: how social media affects adolescent health
Social media has long been an integral part of people's lives, especially the teenage generation. According to various studies, most teenagers spend several hours in them every day, using platforms for communication, entertainment and information. However, along with the growing popularity of digital platforms, concerns about their impact on the mental and physical health of young people are increasing. About how social networks affect the mental and physical condition of teenagers — in the material of Izvestia.
Between support and anxiety: how social media affects mental health
In recent years, governments around the world have begun discussing restrictions on the use of social media by teenagers. At the same time, scientists emphasize that the question is much more complicated than the simple juxtaposition of "useful" or "harmful." Modern research shows that the impact of social media depends on many factors, from the time of use to the characteristics of the teenager himself and the nature of online interaction.
"In public discourse, this relationship is interpreted unambiguously: social networks harm the mental health of our youth. But what do the facts say? Unfortunately, the scientific community cannot give a definite answer. Many studies talk about the negative impact of social media on teenagers. Many others provide evidence of positive influence or even lack of any influence. The evidence base is contradictory and inconsistent," the expert emphasizes in the Medical Xpress journal.
The researcher analyzed more than 50,000 different relationships between social media and adolescent health, taking into account all combinations of indicators such as self-esteem, stress levels, anxiety, depression, diet, as well as physical activity and sleep quality. According to the results, the time teenagers spend on social media is associated with a deterioration in adolescent health: 64% point to a specific relationship — the more time a person spends on social media, the worse their health.
One of the main reasons for concern among experts is related to the increase in symptoms of anxiety and depression among adolescents. The advisory from the U.S. Surgeon General notes that teens who spend more than three hours a day on social media face an approximately twofold increased risk of developing symptoms of anxiety and depression. Young people who already have psychological difficulties are particularly vulnerable.
However, scientists emphasize that the link between social media and mental health is not always a direct cause-and-effect relationship. In an article published in Frontiers in Developmental Psychology, researchers led by Dr. Monica Neff Lind clarify that the existing data remains ambiguous. The authors emphasize that there is no universal evidence yet that a complete ban on social media will automatically improve the condition of teenagers.
The American Psychological Association also draws attention to the fact that the consequences of using social networks depend on the quality of interaction. Supportive communication and a sense of belonging to a community can have a positive effect on the well-being of adolescents, while cyberbullying, social comparison, and constant approval seeking increase the risk of psychological problems.
Additional data is provided by a systematic review published in 2024. Researchers have found that regularly encountering threats on social media, including insults and online harassment, is associated with a higher incidence of depressive symptoms, anxiety, and a worse subjective assessment of one's own health.
Sleep at risk: the impact of social media on physical health
One of the most studied consequences of excessive use of social networks remains sleep disturbance. Teenagers often use smartphones just before falling asleep, and notifications continue to distract them even at night.
According to the advisory opinion of the Surgeon General of the United States, chronic lack of sleep can negatively affect academic performance, concentration, emotional regulation and the general health of adolescents.
Experts from Yale University (an organization whose activities are considered undesirable in the territory of the Russian Federation) note that the adolescent brain is at an important stage of development. Between the ages of 10 and 19, self-control, emotional stability, and social skills are formed. Sleep disorders during this period can increase vulnerability to stress and psychological problems.
In addition, prolonged use of social media is associated with an increase in sedentary behavior. Although the platforms themselves are not a direct cause of the deterioration of physical health, reducing the time for physical activity and rest can indirectly affect the overall well-being of adolescents.
The Comparison that Never Ends: Self-esteem and Body Image
Adolescence is characterized by the active formation of identity and self-esteem. That's why social media, filled with carefully selected photos and idealized lifestyles, can have a particularly strong impact.
According to the advisory opinion of the U.S. Surgeon General, 46% of teenagers aged 13 to 17 reported that using social media makes them feel worse about their own body.
Psychologists explain this phenomenon by constant social comparison. Teenagers tend to compare themselves with other users, focusing on often unattainable standards of appearance, success and popularity. As a result, self-dissatisfaction, decreased self-esteem, and anxiety may increase.
Recommendation algorithms are of particular concern, as they can multiply the impact of a certain type of content. The researchers note that teenagers may repeatedly encounter materials related to extreme diets, changes in appearance, or destructive behaviors.
Not only harm: when social media helps teenagers
Despite the numerous risks, researchers are opposed to the unequivocally negative perception of social media. For many teenagers, they become an important source of support and communication.
The authors of an article in Frontiers in Developmental Psychology emphasize that a complete ban on social media may have unforeseen consequences. For some young people, online communities are a space where they receive emotional support and find like-minded people.
Digital communication can play a particularly important role for teenagers who face social isolation in an offline environment. Social media allows you to maintain friendships, gain access to educational resources, and participate in communities of interest.
Some studies also show that moderate use of social media alone does not necessarily lead to a deterioration in mental health. Scientists are increasingly paying attention not to the amount of time spent, but to the nature of interaction and the quality of the digital experience of teenagers.
Balance instead of prohibitions: what do the experts recommend?
Most experts agree that there is no universal solution to the problem. Instead of completely abandoning social media, experts recommend that teenagers develop the skills to use digital platforms safely and consciously.
The American Psychological Association advises parents to discuss the specifics of social media with teenagers, help them recognize signs of cyberbullying, and maintain an open dialogue about experiences related to online experiences.
The advisory from the Surgeon General of the United States also highlights the importance of setting reasonable boundaries: limiting device use before bedtime, saving time for physical activity, and maintaining a balance between online and offline life.
Modern science shows that social networks in themselves are neither an absolute evil nor an absolute good. Their impact on adolescent health is determined by a combination of individual characteristics, usage patterns, and the environment. That is why researchers are increasingly talking not about the need for a complete ban, but about creating a safer and more supportive digital environment for young users.
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