A recent study found that social media use is associated with increased depressive symptoms in youth. Researchers at UC San Francisco analyzed data from nearly 12,000 kids aged 9-10 and followed them for three years. The results show that as social media use increased, so did depressive symptoms by 35%. In contrast, a rise in depressive symptoms was not linked to an increase in social media use.
The study suggests that social media may be contributing to the development of depressive symptoms, rather than just reflecting underlying issues. Experts point to risks such as cyberbullying and disrupted sleep as potential causes. To address this issue, parents can lead by example by having open conversations with their children about screen use and setting screen-free times for the whole family.
The study’s findings are supported by another recent publication on cyberbullying, which found that kids who were cyberbullied were more likely to report suicidal ideation or attempt a suicide. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends using tools from its Family Media Plan to create healthier digital habits for families. By setting limits and encouraging responsible social media use, parents can help their children develop better screen habits and reduce the risk of depression and other issues.
Source: https://www.ucsf.edu/news/2025/05/430011/yes-social-media-might-be-making-kids-depressed