Social media impacting teenagers’ mental health, say experts, teachers

The growing influence of social media is adversely affecting the mental health of teenagers and adolescents, a matter of serious concern as it is leading to mental health disorders such as anxiety, low self-esteem, depression and unhealthy competition, say medical experts.

Mental health professionals stress that social media platforms were designed by experts worldwide to make applications addictive. In the process, teenagers tend to lose control and unrealistic expectations often push them towards mental distress.

Talking to The Tribune, Dr Kunal Kala of MindPlus Hospital said teenagers today spend several hours daily scrolling through platforms such as Instagram, Snapchat, WhatsApp, Hinge and YouTube.

“In today’s world, exposure to social media is important but it is taking a toll on the mental health of adolescents. They start comparing their lives with curated online images and models. This constant exposure creates unrealistic expectations related to appearance, lifestyle and popularity, pushing many youngsters towards emotional distress,” he said.

He said short-form content disrupts attention span, making it difficult for children to regulate their emotions.

“Being mindful becomes harder, which is not a healthy sign. Parents cannot blame children alone as they are either too busy or are themselves deeply engaged with social media. They need to make their wards understand that constant and unwanted comparison leads to insecurity, anxiety and, in some cases, depression,” he said.

Educationists also maintain that excessive screen time disrupts sleep patterns, further affecting emotional well-being and academic performance.

Principal of Sacred Heart Senior Secondary School, Sarabha Nagar, sister Veena said parents often approach the school with complaints that their wards were glued to social media for 12 to 14 hours a day, which was alarming.

“Parents feel helpless, but they themselves provide unlimited access and freedom. Once children get used to it, parents become worried about their health and studies. There is a saying — ‘the family that prays together, eats together, stays together’. Parents must become role models for their children,” said sister Veena while condemning parents who themselves spend hours on social media.

Meanwhile, Rashmi (name changed), a parent of a 15-year-old girl addicted to Instagram, said she had noticed behavioural changes in her daughter. “My daughter becomes anxious if she posts something and does not get enough likes. She often doubts herself and feels left out,” she said.

School counsellors point out that social media exposure has also led to increased incidents of online bullying and trolling. Many teenagers hesitate to share negative online experiences, fearing judgement or restrictions from parents. “We are witnessing more cases where children feel isolated and withdrawn,” said a school counsellor.