Social media is an ingrained part of everyday life. Almost all adolescents ages 13-17 (94%) say they’re online “almost” or “several times a day.”
Social media can connect teens. But it also brings risks, like cyberbullying. They may also see accounts that encourage eating disorders or self-harm. That’s why both providers and parents need to help teens set healthy boundaries. They need these boundaries for social media use.
What Does the Research Say?
Here’s what the research says about social media’s effects on mental health. It can create a healing space for community and connection. It also offers potential for self-expression, social support, and personal growth benefits.
So, lies can harm kids and teens. They are exposed to misinformation, divisiveness, and violence. It can also harm them with other mature content. The impact of social media use, in general, needs to be clarified. People use it to check what friends, family, and businesses are doing. They also use it to watch entertaining videos.
Talking with Teens About Social Media and Mental Health
Below are seven ways to help teens set boundaries and improve their social media relationships.
Open the Lines of Communication
The key is to start an open dialogue with teens. It should focus on what they like about social media and how they feel when they use it. “When you approach it with curiosity,” you open up space for honest conversation,” says Sally Fleck, PhD (she/her/hers), the clinical manager at ERC Pathlight.
Address Safety and Privacy Concerns
Stress the need to keep personal info private. This means not sharing full names or addresses and turning off location services. Also, emphasize that your child can come to you immediately if they ever feel unsafe on social media.
Set Flexible Boundaries
Start small, with no phones at the dinner table or limiting screen time before bed. “Boundaries can be too strict,” says Dr. Fleck. “For example, making teens disconnect completely. If this happens, they will use their friends’ phones at school to access social media.”
Consider Time Limits
Try 30-minute increments of social media use after school and go from there. “Set their phone to ping them once they’ve reached the limit as a reminder,” Dr. Fleck says. Resources like the American Academy of Pediatrics website have a family media plan. It can help parents and providers set appropriate limits. They are based on factors unique to each family.
Keep it Real
Remind adolescents that the images and personas they see others portray on social media are often curated. “You’re only seeing what other people want to show you,” Dr. Lucker says. Because of this false reality created, social media can affect a person’s self-perception.
Encourage a Self Audit
“Ask a teen to take a five-minute pause before and after each social media session,” Dr. Lucker says. “During the pause, they should write down how they feel.” Doing so will help teens be more mindful about their social media use. It will also help them see how it impacts them. Parents can model healthy behaviors and conduct their self-audits alongside teens.
Embrace a Values-Based Approach.
“Help teenagers align their social media feed with what matters to them. That’s family, friends, art, and volunteering,” Dr. Fleck says. “This will help them develop an internal compass to self-govern their social media use.”
Social Media Red Flags to Watch For
Every child responds, but specific behavior changes can be red flags. They show that a teen’s social media use has become unhealthy.
Changes to Basic Hygiene
“A teen was showering daily and brushing their teeth twice a day. But now they are slipping,” says Dr. Lucker. “It might show social media is impacting their life.”
Sudden Shifts in Mood and Irritability.
Mood changes are expected at this age. But, it is vital to note if a teen is more moody or irritable after using social media.
Pulling Away From Family
Seeking independence can be healthy for teens. But it’s terrible if someone has stopped doing family activities or seems closed off from loved ones.
Defensive About Social Media Use
It is a significant red flag when teens clam up when you ask about social media. “If teens are old enough for social media,” says Dr. Lucker. “Then they are old enough to talk with their parents about how they use it.”
Parents and providers can help teens use social media by following these tips. They can still get the connection and belonging they crave.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, social media can help teens connect and express themselves. Yet, it also poses risks to their mental health. Parents and providers can help by keeping communication open. They should set flexible boundaries and promote mindful use. This way, teens can enjoy the benefits of social media while avoiding its dangers.
