Are Smartphones Harming Your Teen?
Takeaways:
- Teenagers can be very vulnerable to mental health challenges, including those related to smartphone use.
- Research suggests that the accessibility of social media through smartphones can negatively impact teen mental health.
- You can safeguard yourself or your loved one with strategies that limit time on social media apps, focusing on in-person connection, and developing interests outside of phone usage.
Negative Effects of Smartphones on Mental Health
Research shows that mental health concerns have been on the rise among teens since 2012. Today, over 20% of teens have been diagnosed with some form of mental, emotional, or behavioral health concern. But what has caused this dramatic shift in teen mental health?
We’re seeing evidence that there’s a connection between the surge in smartphone use and general happiness among teens. If you’re curious about the negative effects of smartphones on mental health, take a look at this guide from our experts to learn more.
Mobile Phone Addiction & Mental Health
Most teens spend about eight hours each day using some type of smart device, including phones and tablets. Most of their attention is focused on social media, ensuring they spend their time comparing themselves to peers in terms of general success, likeability, and appearance. Such widespread use of social media also provides more opportunity for bullying from peers throughout the day — even when they’re at home!
The earlier kids are exposed to social media, the larger the negative effects of smartphones have on their mental health.
Strategies to Prevent Mobile Phone Addiction & Mental Health Issues
There are a few ways you can mitigate the negative effects of smartphones on mental health, including:
- Introducing access to technology later in life
- Limiting screen time to just one or two hours a day
- Limit the sites that are accessible through the phone
- Discuss the dangers of social media and technology
- Help your teen develop interests outside of technology
Mobile Phone Misuse FAQ
What are the most common conditions linking mobile phone addiction and mental health?
Teens who spend a ton of time online or on social media have higher rates of anxiety and depression. They may also experience emotional outbursts when their access to technology and social media is limited.
Why do teens experience depression or anxiety from spending time on social media?
One of the most common negative effects of smartphones on mental health is the comparison trap. When caught in this cycle, teens may agonize over whether they’re as attractive and popular as their peers. They may also experience fear of missing out when seeing peers posting about their lifestyles.
How can you tell if someone is being bullied online?
Some warning signs that someone is experiencing online bullying include:
- Secrecy about online activities
- Sudden changes in device habits, like obsession or avoidance
- Emotional reactions after interacting with social media
- Abruptly deleting or creating new social media accounts
- Increased symptoms of depression or anxiety
- School avoidance or academic decline
- Lack of interest in socializing with peers
Finding Support for Device Addiction
With a deeper understanding of the negative effects of smartphones on mental health, you can make better decisions regarding exposure to technology and social media. However, if your child is already experiencing symptoms from device addiction, Ascend is here to help with residential treatment and outpatient programs.
Whether you’ve been referred by your doctor or you’re researching options, our admissions team is happy to discuss your needs. Reach out today for personalized guidance and support regarding device misuse.
