Smartphones are central to social and professional life in the networked age. Many studies have suggested that excessive use of smartphones and social media affect social and psychological well-being.
Adding weight to those studies, a new study, recently published in the CMAJ (Canadian Medical Association Journal), sheds light on the evidence that suggests an association between excessive smartphone and social media use and mental distress and suicidality among adolescents.
lead author Dr. Elia Abi-Jaoude, Staff Psychiatrist, SickKids, and Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario said, “Physicians, teachers, and families need to work together with youth to decrease possible harmful effects of smartphones and social media on their relationships, sense of self, sleep, academic performance, and emotional well-being.”
In the study, scientists discussed various topics, including ‘the effects of social media on adolescents’ sense of self,’ ‘excessive smartphone use and its effect on mental health,’ ‘the impact of social media and smartphone usage on sleep,’ ‘the association between social media and suicidal thoughts,’ etc.
Scientists noted, “Such factors should be considered by clinicians and researchers who work in the field of youth mental health.”
“Given the importance of engaging youth in mitigating potential harms from social media, a prohibitionist approach would be counterproductive.”
“For adolescents today, who have not known a world without social media, digital interactions are the norm, and the potential benefits of online access to productive mental health information — including media literacy, creativity, self-expression, sense of belonging and civic engagement — as well as low barriers to resources such as crisis lines and Internet-based talking therapies cannot be discounted.”
The study also offers suggestions that can help teens manage smartphone and social media use:
- Physicians can recommend teens reduce social media use rather than eradicate it. They should ask parents to be a part of the conversation.
- Parents can discuss appropriate smartphone use with teenagers to determine together how to reduce risks and set boundaries.
- Schools should negotiate developmentally appropriate smartphone use in the context of a relationship built on mutual trust and respect for autonomy.