Increasingly, heavy use of social media platforms is being associated with elevated risks of anxiety and depression among young individuals, as highlighted by OSF Saint Anthony’s Health Center. This concerning trend is raising concerns about its adverse impact on students’ school performance, manifesting as difficulties in focusing, studying, or even attending school.
According to Staci M. Knox, LCSW, Manager of Psychological Services at OSF Saint Anthony’s Health Center, the pressure to maintain a flawless online image, fueled by constant comparisons with peers, can lead to feelings of inadequacy and anxiety among young people. She emphasized that the incessant exposure to peers’ “highlight reels” can evoke a fear of missing out, contributing to feelings of loneliness and isolation. Furthermore, exposure to cyberbullying and negative comments can erode self-esteem, making young individuals susceptible to depression.
OSF officials underscore the importance of caregivers and school personnel gaining a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics of social media and its potential to yield negative impacts. Virtual spaces have become an integral part of young people’s lives, offering social connectedness and instant communication. However, these platforms also present challenges that can significantly affect youth mental health.
Knox emphasized that discussions about mental health may reveal that a young person is experiencing thoughts or plans of self-harm or harm to others, indicating a crisis situation requiring immediate intervention and support.
With the onset of the new school year, OSF officials stress the necessity for parents, caregivers, teachers, coaches, counselors, and school administrators to collaborate in educating and supporting young individuals as they navigate the challenges of the digital world. This involves fostering a healthy sense of self-worth and resilience. The OSF team highlighted the importance of the new Mental Health America toolkit titled “Selfies, Social, and Screens: Navigating Virtual Spaces for Youth.”
The toolkit encompasses the following key areas:
Insights into youth’s online activities.
The potential impact of online activity on mental health.
Strategies for initiating conversations with young individuals about challenging emotions they may encounter.
Guidance on helping young people mitigate the potentially detrimental effects of social media.
Notably, the toolkit also includes information and tips tailored specifically for youth. To further support young individuals, free, confidential, and anonymous screening tools are available at mhascreening.org.
