The excessive and unregulated use of social media is increasingly affecting the mental health of young people, making it an issue that deserves urgent public attention. Many teenagers spend several hours a day on social media platforms, where they are constantly exposed to unrealistic beauty standards, cyberbullying, misinformation and the pressure to seek online approval through likes and followers. Studies have highlighted growing concerns about anxiety, depression, sleep disorders and low self-esteem among adolescents associated with problematic social media use. While social media itself is not the sole cause of these issues, excessive use can worsen existing mental health challenges.
Parents, schools, technology companies and policymakers must work together to create healthier digital environment. Schools should include digital literacy and mental health awareness in their curricula, helping students develop responsible online habits. Parents should encourage open conversations with their children and establish healthy screen-time boundaries. Social media companies should continue improving measures against cyberbullying and harmful content while providing stronger safety tools for young users. Social media is a powerful tool that can enrich lives when used responsibly. By promoting awareness, education and balanced digital habits, we can help teenagers enjoy the benefits of technology without compromising their mental well-being.
Nida Zaman
Charsadda
