MARQUETTE, Mich. (WZMQ) – It seems like everyone has a cell phone these days, and with the growing popularity of social media, kids are getting younger and younger when it comes to using the internet.
Recently, US Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy released a report detailing the impact of social media on adolescents.
In the report, he said it was found that 95% of children aged 13 to 17 use social media, and 40% of children aged 8 to 12 use social media despite restrictions, even though most sites do not allow users under 13.
One major concern is the negative impact that cellphones and social media can have on children’s sleep schedules, which Alyssa Slattery, a mental health specialist with Marquette Alger RESA, said could be a big problem.
“One in three young people spends late nights or later on social media,” Slattery said. “How can you expect to be sharp at school the next day if you’re not getting enough sleep?”
Exposure to social media can also have a detrimental effect on children’s mental health, according to the report.
“This is associated with suicide and emotional management issues,” Slattery said. “So it just snowballs.”
These side effects can include depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and even tendencies to self-harm.
But what can parents, teachers and health care providers do to prevent these harmful side effects?
Slattery said the solution starts at home.
“The best thing you can do is have an open discussion about technology and social media use from the beginning,” Slattery says, “and ultimately keep them away for as long as possible.”
So, to keep your kids safe and healthy, make sure you understand the pros and cons of going online.
To see the entire report from the U.S. Surgeon General, please visit the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services website.
