Teen internet use and depression
Tuesday, May 21, 2024.
Excessive internet use is increasingly linked to depression, according to a comprehensive review of recent research.
As a marriage and family therapist, I’ll explore the impacts of internet overuse on adolescent mental health, and best practices for achieving a healthier balance.
The Link Between Internet Overuse and Depression
Studies reveal that excessive time spent online can lead to depression, primarily because it reduces the time available for activities that promote mental well-being.
Adolescents who are heavy internet users often forgo beneficial activities such as exercise and face-to-face socializing, often because they are too fatigued from their online activities.
Why Moderation is Key
Even for young people, there are only so many hours in the day and so much energy to expend.
Without mentally beneficial activities, those who use the internet excessively are more likely to experience higher levels of depression.
This explains why moderate internet use is not typically associated with depression or other mental health issues. Individuals who use the internet in moderation still have time for their hobbies, social interactions, and outdoor activities.
Dr. Hassam Waheed, the study’s first author, emphasizes the importance of balance: “We live in an increasingly connected world and there are lots of positives of using the internet, for studies and recreational purposes. Our research supports existing efforts to promote awareness of the consequences of increased internet usage and time spent online, and calls for further action to consider maximizing offline opportunities and interactions.”
How the study was conducted
The research, a meta-analysis of 52 separate studies of adolescents, indicates that those prone to internet addiction tend to be sleepier during the day and engage less in activities beneficial to their mental health. Dr. Peter Macaulay, co-author of the study, explains:
“One of the main issues we noticed was that time online is often unstructured; while there may be boundaries for some uses such as time playing games on a PlayStation, this isn’t extended to other internet use.”
The Role of Parental Guidance
The study also examined the levels of internet freedom in different countries. It found that merely trying to censor adolescents' time online was ineffective in reducing the harmful effects of internet overuse.
Adolescents often find ways around restrictions, such as using proxies to bypass blocks. Instead, parents should encourage their children to use the internet in a more moderate and focused manner.
Dr. Macaulay suggests, “Such focused time would also foster a healthier relationship with technology through mindful consumption.”
Questions for the Future of Adolescent Mental Health
As we navigate this digital age, several questions arise for the future of adolescent mental health:
How can we better educate adolescents about the risks of excessive internet use?
What strategies can families implement to ensure balanced internet usage?
How can schools and communities support healthier online habits?
What role can mental health professionals play in promoting digital wellness?
Final thoughts
To maintain mental well-being, it’s crucial for adolescents to balance their internet use with activities that promote physical, social, and emotional health. Encouraging moderation and mindful consumption of online content can help foster healthier relationships with technology.
As mental health professionals, we must continue to explore and address the implications of internet use on adolescent mental health, guiding families toward balanced and fulfilling lives. Let’s stay curious.
Be Well, Stay Kind, and Godspeed.
RESEARCH:
Caught in the web: a meta-analysis of Internet addiction, excessive daytime sleepiness and depressive symptoms in adolescents
Hassam Waheed, Peter J.R. Macaulay, Hamdan Amer Ali Al-Jaifi, Kelly-Ann Allen, Long She
Information Technology & People
ISSN: 0959-3845
Open Access. Article publication date: 14 March 2024
