A study at the University of California at San Francisco showed that an increase in the time that adolescents spend on social networks is directly related to increased symptoms of depression. In three years, the average duration of daily use of social networks in children has increased from 7 to 73 minutes, which caused an increase in depression by 35%.
The study was attended by nearly 12,000 children, who watched from 9-10 to 12-13 years. The head of the scientific group Dr. Jason Nagata noted that the results confirm the impact of social networks on adolescent mental health.
The reasons for this impact have not yet been established, however, scientists suggest that cyberbuling and sleep disorders play an important role. Cyberbullying children have a significantly increased risk of suicide and psychoactive substances such as marijuana, nicotine and alcohol.
Experts advise parents not only to limit the time of using gadgets, but to create an atmosphere of trust and open dialogue with children about their digital experience. Setting family time without screens, such as while eating and at bedtime, will help form healthy habits.
Interestingly, despite military difficulties, Ukrainian teenagers are less worried at school than their peers abroad.
