THE IMPACT OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON CHILDREN’S MENTAL HEALTH

Abstract

Objectives. To evaluate the negative and positive effects associated with social media use on the mental health of children and adolescents and to highlight the role of parents, digital education, and protective measures in reducing risks.

Methods. A narrative review of the scientific literature and institutional documents was conducted. PubMed and relevant official and institutional sources were consulted, including documents from the World Health Organization, UNICEF, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, the European Commission, public authorities, and professional organizations. The search used the terms social media, children, adolescents, and mental health, and sources relevant to the objectives of the review were selected.

Results. The evidence reviewed indicates associations between problematic or intensive social media use and anxiety, depressive symptoms, low self-esteem, cyberbullying, and sleep disorders. Data from the international Health Behaviour in School-aged Children study, involving approximately 280,000 adolescents, show an increase in problematic social media use from 7% in 2018 to 11% in 2022, with a higher prevalence among girls than boys. In some studies, social media use for at least three hours per day was associated with adverse mental health outcomes and a history of self-harm, although these associations do not by themselves establish causality. Balanced use may facilitate communication, social support, access to educational resources, and creative expression.

Conclusions. The effects of social media depend on the intensity, context, and type of use. Digital education, open communication, age-appropriate supervision, and healthy limits may help reduce risks while preserving the potential benefits of the digital environment.