3 hours a day that can change everything: Social media and anxiety in adolescents

Children who spend more than three hours a day on social media are more likely to experience anxiety and depression during adolescence, according to a new study. 

The study, conducted by Imperial College London , analyzed data from 2,350 students from 31 schools in London. The children were observed in two phases: first at the age of 11–12 and then at the age of 13–15. They completed questionnaires about digital habits, mental health and lifestyle, and underwent several tests.

The results showed a clear reality: those who used social media for more than three hours a day showed more symptoms of anxiety and depression compared to those who used it for about 30 minutes. According to the researchers, this is related to the fact that these children sleep later and less, especially during school days.

Professor Mireille Toledano, who led the research, stressed that there is a clear trend between time spent online and mental health. According to her, the use of social networks, especially at night, deprives children of the sleep necessary for normal development and functioning.

At the same time, the debate over protecting minors online is intensifying globally. Australia has become the first country to impose restrictions on the use of social media by those under 16, taking strong measures to protect them in the digital space.

However, experts warn that the situation is complex and there is not yet enough evidence to suggest that complete bans are the ideal solution. Instead, they suggest more education in schools about the safe use of technology and the importance of sleep.

The findings are published in BMC Medicine , while the researchers emphasize the need for further research, given that social networks are changing rapidly and their impact on children remains an evolving issue.

However, the trend clearly shows the effects of technology on children, which are not immediate, but long-term, so the appeal remains the same: Children should be kept as far away from the phone screen as possible.