Effect of social media on the mental health of young people

Summary

With the greatly increased use of social media by young people, concern has grown over its impact on various aspects of their mental and physical health.

As well as depression and anxiety caused by online bullying and social comparison, and potentially damaging online content there is also concern about effect that the amount of time itself spent on social media has on sleep and the ability to concentrate.

This briefing brings together various official reports and academic studies into these aspects.  It also shows recent press and parliamentary coverage and links to sources of advice and further reading.