Smartphones, social media and mental health

ALSPAC has generated important evidence on how smartphones and social media affect young people's mental health. This research has improved understanding of how digital environments influence adolescent wellbeing and supports policy development on youth mental health, online safety and digital wellbeing. ALSPAC is directly involved in government-supported work examining the impacts of smartphones and social media on children and young people. The findings have informed government evidence reviews, parliamentary debate and wider public discussion on online safety, schools policy and young people's mental health.

We consider this an important contribution toward public discussions and academic research.

Sources:

• Social media and mental wellbeing profiles (Nature Mental Health)
• Internet use and later mental health problems (PLOS ONE)
• UK Government evidence review on smartphones and social media (page 52)