In recent years, social media has become an integral part of daily life for many British teenagers. Platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, and Twitter offer endless entertainment, social interaction, and content consumption. However, this widespread use has given rise to growing concerns about social media addiction and its impact on the mental health and future well-being of young people in the UK.
The research, conducted by Dr. Amy Orben and their team at the University of Cambridge, tracked the lives of about 19,000 people born in 2000-2002 across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. When the cohort were aged 16-18 they were asked, for the first time, about social media use. Of the 7,000 people who responded, 48% said they agreed or strongly agreed with the statement “I think I am addicted to social media.” A higher proportion of girls (57%) agreed compared to boys (37%), according to the data.
Also a study in 2023 found that 93% of UK teenagers (aged 12-15) use social media regularly, with 42% of this age group admitting to checking their social accounts multiple times an hour. The phenomenon of doomscrolling (endlessly scrolling through negative news or content) and the fear of missing out (FOMO) are especially prevalent. Teenagers feel pressure to stay constantly connected, fearing they might miss important social events or trending topics if they don’t. This creates a vicious cycle, where teens check their devices even during meals, school breaks, and late at night.
One of the most significant impacts of social media addiction is its toll on mental health. British teens are increasingly facing problems such as anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. Social media often serves as a platform for comparison, where teens feel inadequate when comparing themselves to the seemingly perfect lives of others. This can lead to body image issues, feelings of exclusion, and social anxiety, particularly in teenage girls.
A 2022 report by the UK’s Royal Society for Public Health linked excessive social media use to increased rates of cyberbullying, which can further exacerbate mental health problems. Many teenagers experience online harassment, which can leave deep psychological scars, especially when it happens in front of their peer group.
Social media addiction is also linked to sleep deprivation. Studies show that 60% of British teenagers check their phones in bed, with many spending hours on social media before sleeping. The blue light emitted by screens disrupts the production of melatonin, a hormone necessary for sleep, making it harder for teenagers to fall asleep and achieve quality rest. This lack of sleep not only affects their mental health but also leads to poor academic performance and increased stress.
Social media is designed to be engaging and often distracts teenagers from other important tasks, such as schoolwork or physical activity. The rapid pace of content on platforms like TikTok or Instagram can shorten attention spans, making it difficult for teens to focus on longer tasks. A growing concern is that overstimulation from social media may lead to problems with cognitive development, potentially impairing teenagers’ ability to focus on complex tasks in the future.
Paradoxically, while social media is supposed to connect people, it can also result in isolation. Many British teenagers are increasingly prioritizing their online relationships over face-to-face interactions. This shift has led to a decrease in meaningful social skills, such as verbal communication and conflict resolution, which are crucial for personal development. In the long term, this may make it harder for these teens to form strong, healthy relationships in adulthood.
As social media usage increases, academic performance is often one of the first things to suffer. Teenagers who spend excessive amounts of time on social platforms are less likely to dedicate the necessary hours to study, complete assignments, or engage in extracurricular activities. This can lead to lower grades and limit future career opportunities. In an era where education is highly competitive, the inability to balance social media use with academic responsibilities could have long-term consequences.
Furthermore, the addiction to instant gratification from likes and comments may diminish teens’ ability to engage in activities that require sustained effort, like career-building skills, hobbies, or even planning for long-term goals.
The mental health challenges that come from excessive social media use are unlikely to disappear as teenagers grow older. If not addressed, these issues could worsen over time. Chronic anxiety, depression, and feelings of inadequacy might persist into adulthood, potentially leading to greater mental health crises. Moreover, those who face cyberbullying or online harassment during their teenage years may carry trauma well into adulthood, affecting their confidence and interpersonal relationships.
One long-term concern is that teenagers who grow up addicted to social media may develop an unhealthy dependence on external validation. Constantly seeking likes, comments, and approval online can make it difficult for individuals to find self-worth outside of the digital space. This dependency may translate into low self-esteem in real-world environments, creating challenges in both personal and professional spheres.
Addressing the issue of social media addiction in British teenagers requires a collaborative approach from schools, parents, and social media platforms themselves.
Education and Awareness: Schools can introduce digital literacy programs that educate students about the dangers of excessive social media use. Encouraging critical thinking about the content they consume online can help teenagers discern between reality and the curated images they see on platforms.
Parental Involvement: Parents can play a key role by setting clear boundaries for social media usage at home. Limiting screen time, encouraging digital detox periods, and fostering open conversations about the risks of online platforms can help teenagers develop healthier habits.
Platform Responsibility: Social media companies can introduce screen time reminders and usage limits, while also curating content that promotes well-being. Algorithms that push harmful content, like those associated with body image issues, should be more closely regulated to protect young users.
Mental Health Support: Increasing access to mental health resources for teenagers is essential. Offering more support in schools, such as counseling and workshops on mental health, can provide teens with the tools they need to manage their online behavior and mental health challenges.