In a time of swipes and scrolls, it’s important to distinguish between social media usage that’s beneficial to a teenager and that which is harmful. A 2018 University of Pennsylvania study found that using social media for about 30 minutes in a day can boost a person’s mood while using it for more than two hours a day can increase the risk of anxiety and depression.
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The 2018 study also found that the less time people spend on their social media, the fewer symptoms of depression and loneliness they reported. So how do you help teenagers manage their time on social media:
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Help them to plan their day and follow the set schedule: By giving them a window of time to use social media, not only will you be able to keep an eye on the useage but also help them deal with their FOMO, or fear of missing out.
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Set a "no mobile phone" policy at different times of the day/night. No cell phones during meal times, while watching TV, during family time and at bedtime.
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Set tasks that require a person to be busy offline: Chores and hobbies are great ways to engage and distract. Wondering how to get the kids do their chores? Use less of social media yourself to set an example for your teens. It’s always a case of show, don’t tell what works. If your kids see you spending more time on reel life than real life, that’s what they’ll do too.
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If you do notice a problem, get a mental health professional involved at once. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy – which teaches a person to spot, analyse and rectify harmful thoughts – mindfulness and counselling can help.
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