02/13/2026
In a time where more and more children and teens have cellphones and access to social media, how is it affecting their mental health?
👍 Research shows social media can be a place of social connection for teens, as well as finding others who share interests with them.
👍 Social media can also be used as a place of learning.
👎 Some children and teens spend too much time on social media. It can interfere with real-life socialization as well as getting enough sleep.
👎 Social media can present unrealistic ideals to youth which can impact self-esteem and body image.
📱 How can you help you child or teen with social media use?
✅ Set time limits for use. Make your children turn in their phones each day. You can also set specific daily time limits for each app in “Settings” on iPhones. The AAP recommends no phones in bedrooms and turning them in for charging at a set time each evening.
✅ Use parental controls. Some apps have age-based controls installed automatically based on the birth date used to sign up for the account. You can also look into parental controls and monitoring through your cellphone carrier to ensure children and teens are only accessing content that is appropriate for them.
Concerns about your child or teen’s mental health? We’re here to help! Call our office at 913-345-9400 to schedule a mental health office visit.
https://www.healthychildren.org/English/family-life/Media/Pages/social-media-and-your-childs-mental-health-what-research-says.aspx?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=69654055&gbraid=0AAAAADyMpZF1NicFTs3Hos5e0rZ3e5579
