The Social Media Effect: Are Young People Truly Happy and How Will The New Under-16 Social Media Restrictions Impact Young People?

The Double-Edged Sword of Social Media

Social media can be both a source of connection and a cause of significant distress for young people. Within my practice, I have had plenty of people raising concerns about how social media has now unlocked new creative ways to bully anonymously using social media platforms such as Instagram and Snapchat. While it does allow young people to stay in touch with friends and access support networks, It can negatively affect young peoples wellbeing and excessive use has been linked to depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem.

The Science Behind Social Media and Happiness

Studies suggest that frequent use of social media may alter brain functions related to learning and emotions, which can lead to affecting emotional regulation and impulse control. Research suggests girls and boys might be more vulnerable to the negative effects of social media use at different times during their teenage years. In a study published by Nature Communications, the researchers found in the UK, girls experience a negative link between social media use and dissatisfaction in life when they are 11-13 years of age, whereas boys experience this later, when they are 14-15.

Increased social media use again predicts lower life satisfaction at age 19 years. At other times the link was not statistically significant.

The Role of Parents and Educators

A recent poll found that 80% of parents believe smartphones are harmful to young people, and 90% feel social media negatively impacts their children. Many parents want stricter regulations to protect children from harmful content online.

Despite the risks, social media can also provide positive mental health benefits, such as encouraging supportive communities and self-expression. The key is moderation and helping children and young people develop healthy habits and critical thinking skills when engaging online.

The Support of Therapy

We can encourage healthy boundaries to protect their mental wellbeing, build self esteem by addressing the impact of comparison and unrealistic online standards. Help foster self awareness and confidence. Encouragement of regular self care and breaks from social media to improve sleep, emotional resilience and focus.

We can also support young people in developing critical thinking skills to evaluate online content and misinformation. Offer techniques to manage anxiety and stress linked to online interactions

and fostering a therapeutic relationship which allows young people to express their own experiences of how social media has impacted them.

The Recent Under-16 Social Media Restrictions

The recent introduction of stricter measures around social media use for under-16s has sparked significant discussion among parents, educators, mental health professionals and young people themselves.

Supporters of these changes argue that reducing access to potentially harmful content, cyberbullying, unrealistic comparisons and addictive platform features may help protect young people's mental wellbeing during key developmental years.

However, it's important to recognise that social media itself is not inherently harmful. For many young people, online spaces provide connection, community, self-expression and a sense of belonging, particularly for those who may feel isolated or misunderstood in their offline lives. From a therapeutic perspective, the conversation is often less about whether social media is "good" or "bad" and more about helping young people develop a healthy relationship with technology. Understanding how social media affects mood, self-esteem, sleep, relationships and emotional wellbeing can help young people make informed choices and build resilience in an increasingly digital world. As these new restrictions are introduced, ongoing support, open conversations and education will remain essential in helping young people navigate both the opportunities and challenges of online spaces.

Seeking Support

If you recognise yourself in some of the experiences described above, then support is available. I have experience working with young people and support can be found here - Therapy Services

About the Author

Danielle Christie Greene is a UK-based qualified Psychotherapist offering psychotherapy for adults and young people navigating ADHD, autism, M.E/CFS and chronic health conditions, supporting people who are experiencing anxiety, low self-esteem, ADHD-related challenges, and emotional difficulties. Working with clients online to support them in better understanding themselves and creating meaningful change.