Assistant Principal

Social Media and Mental Health

The Reality: A Double-Edged Sword  

Children and young people spend significant time online, making the mental health impact of technology use — especially social media — a growing concern for parents and carers.  

The connection is real: There is evidence linking certain types of social media use to poor mental health outcomes like anxiety and depression. However, it would be misleading to say social media always negatively impacts mental health. In fact, it often plays a protective role, supporting young people's social connection, creativity, and sense of community.  

The key insight: Social media is a double-edged sword. As parents and carers, we should aim to mitigate the risks while still allowing children to enjoy the rewards.  

Understanding the Australian Government Response  

Rising community concern has led the Australian Government to place an age limit of 16 on some of the most popular social media platforms, due to come into effect late in 2025. 

Important Notes About Age Limits  

Most current platforms are intended for ages 13 and over, but this was based on historical data laws from overseas, not necessarily because platforms are appropriate or safe for that age group.  

Some young people will try to find ways around the age limit. 

Critical warning: Parents should not help children set up accounts with fake ages, as this may increase the risk of children being offered age-inappropriate content  

The Science: How Social Media Use Matters  

Research suggests that how young people use social media matters more than whether they use it at all.  

Active vs. Passive Use  

Active Social Media Use (Positive Impact):  

Engaging with peers and friends they also interact with offline.

At least one study suggests this kind of active social engagement can enhance mental wellbeing by nurturing social connection 

Passive Social Media Use (Negative Association):  

Scrolling through other people's content without engaging. 

- Associated with higher levels of depression and anxiety  

- Young people may feel inadequate when comparing themselves to others' highlight reels.

Important Research Limitation:  

This research shows association, not causation. We don't know if passive scrolling contributes to poor mental health, or if young people experiencing poor mental health are more likely to engage in passive use. However, the link suggests it's wise to encourage active use over passive consumption.  

What Parents Can Do

1. Maintain Open Communication  

The most positive action is maintaining open communication with children about both technology use and mental health.  

Communication Tips:  

- Think about your tone and questions—avoid making your child feel interrogated.  

- Take genuine interest in what they're doing online.  

- Find out what gives them joy. 

- Listen for things that make them sad or anxious. 

- If something worries you, be careful not to overreact.  

- Practice compassion and curiosity.  

2. Watch for Warning Signs  

Keep an eye out for signs that social media and technology use isn't healthy:  

- Becoming upset or angry when spending time away from devices, becoming a smart family, which you can find here:

https://www.alannahandmadeline.org.au/learning-resources/digitalk/finding-balance-becoming-a-screen-smart-family

- Engaging with disturbing or age-inappropriate content.  

- Significant mood changes related to online activities.  

3. Start Early and Be Consistent  

Have regular, honest discussions about social media and mental health. The earlier you start these conversations, the better foundation you'll build for ongoing dialogue.  

4. Seek Help When Needed  

If you're concerned about your child's mental health, don't hesitate to seek outside support. Help is available starting with your family GP.  

Support Resources  

Immediate Support  

Dolly's Dream Support Line: Dolly’s Dream  24-hour phone line with qualified counsellors ready to respond to parents, carers, and young people (particularly valuable for online bullying concerns)

 https://www.dollysdream.org.au/get-help 

Kids Helpline: Online, phone, and counselling service operating Australia-wide Parent line: Phone lines available for each state and territory 

Educational Resources  

For families interested in learning more:  

Alannah Madeline Foundation Digi Talk Series:

Comprehensive resources for digital safety and wellbeing:

 https://www.alannahandmadeline.org.au/learning-resources/digitalk 

Free Webinar: "Bridging the Gap Between Gamers, Parents and Professionals": Specialised support for understanding gaming and digital engagement:

https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_U0sun0CDTgOOSlK0ERnLQg#/registration