Social Media & Kids’ Mental Health: NGO Warning
A new report reveals a global mental health crisis fueled by the expansion of social media platforms, impacting children and teens worldwide. One in seven adolescents faces mental health issues, with heavy internet use linked to increased suicide attempts. KidsRights demands immediate action, urging thorough assessments of social media’s impact on children’s rights and improved support. news Directory 3 highlights the urgent need to protect the well-being of the 2.2 billion children navigating the digital age. Discover what’s next in safeguarding children’s mental health.
Social Media Fueling ‘Devastating’ Kids’ Mental Health Crisis
Updated June 11, 2025
The unchecked growth of social media platforms is driving a global mental health crisis among children and teens, according to a new report. The children’s NGO KidsRights is calling for immediate, coordinated international action to address the problem.
The report indicates that one in seven individuals aged 10 to 19 experiences mental health issues. The global suicide rate for those aged 15 to 19 stands at six per 100,000. The Amsterdam-based group suggests that even these figures likely underestimate the problem due to underreporting driven by social stigma.
KidsRights chairman marc Dullaert emphasized the urgency of the situation. He stated that the mental health crisis among children has reached a critical point, worsened by the expansion of social media platforms that prioritize engagement over child safety. The report highlights a rise in problematic social media use and a direct correlation between heavy internet use and suicide attempts, underscoring the impact of social media and mental health.
While acknowledging the dangers, the group cautioned against blanket bans on social media, citing potential infringements on children’s rights, including access to information. Australia, such as, has a law banning social media use for those under 16.
Rather, KidsRights advocates for complete assessments of social media platforms’ impact on children’s rights at a global level. They also call for improved education for children and better training for mental health professionals to address the growing mental health issues.
“This year’s report is a wake-up call that we cannot ignore any longer,” said Marc Dullaert, KidsRights chairman.
The report also referenced the popularity of the Netflix series “Adolescence,” which highlights toxic online content viewed by children. Dullaert noted that while the series demonstrates awareness of these issues, awareness alone is not enough. Concrete action is needed to ensure the digital revolution enhances, rather than endangers, the well-being of the world’s 2.2 billion children. He stressed that half-measures are no longer sufficient to combat the mental health crisis.
What’s next
Looking ahead, KidsRights plans to continue advocating for policies and programs that prioritize children’s mental health in the digital age. They aim to collaborate with governments,social media companies,and other organizations to create a safer online environment for young people and address the root causes of the mental health crisis.