Screen Time May Not Be the Real Problem Behind Mental Health Symptoms, Australian Study Finds

A major Australian study has investigated the impact of digital technologies on the mental health and development of young people. Researchers discovered that existing mental health issues were more likely to predict increased technology use, especially social media, rather than the other way around. The Digital Technology Experiences of Children and Young People report, released by the National Mental Health Commission, focused on Australians aged 5 to 25.

• Young people are growing up in an increasingly digital world.
• Understanding the effects of online technologies on mental health is a priority.
• A significant Australian study challenges the assumption that more online time equates to poorer mental health in youth.
• The study found stronger evidence that pre-existing mental health problems predict greater subsequent technology use.
• This relationship was particularly noted for social media use.
• The report examined technology use and mental health in Australians aged 5 to 25.