Following Netflix’s recent powerful and evocative series, Adolescence and the recent media campaign around the protection on social media, it led me to question how much parents/carers really understand about the meanings of emojis on social media platforms and what content they are viewing. What impact does this new form of communication have on our children’s mental health, development of relationships and self-esteem?
The use of phones and social media has led to the scrutiny of every aspect of our appearance, behaviour and speech. A person’s most embarrassing moments are now captured and shared for all to see for eternity, but what differs in the generations of phone exposure is that our teens are being overloaded with a constant stream of content from a young age that is now likened to an addiction. From a therapy perspective we need to acknowledge the emotional impact this has on our young people and the need for support at a young age.
A recent study by Action for Children found that there was a 65% increase in mental health admissions to acute medical wards in England over the last decade. Whilst social media offers young people an opportunity to express themselves, it also invites unrealistic comparisons and pressures that can influence self- worth at a time when they are developing their sense of identity.
In modern day society, we cannot ignore the reliance of mobile phones and social media for everyday life, but we need to acknowledge that it has led to a new way of communicating and use of social skills. Schools are delivering advice and guidance to pupils in schools, but it is parents/carers that need the information and guidance to be able to make changes and protect their children.
If you would like more information, Young Minds has produced a guide for parents:
Social Media & Mental Health | Guide For Parents | YoungMinds
Be aware of changes in behaviour, be informed of what they are being exposed to and be prepared for a reluctance to show you. Its ok to ask for help!
Bereaved parents demand social media firms protect children – BBC News
Ofcom finalises rules for tech firms to protect children online – BBC News
Harry and Meghan call for stronger social media protections for children – BBC News