1. social media apps, or the time spent on each app.
2. Avoid “doomscrolling”: stay conscious of how what you are seeing on
social media is affecting your mood. If the content you are seeing is starting
to make you feel envious, stressed, or depressed, it may be time to take a
break.
3. Protect yourself and others: when using social media, always be mindful
of privacy concerns and community standards. Never post sensitive
personal information and report abusive behavior.
The Center of Excellence on Social Media and Youth Mental Health suggests three
approaches to preventing problematic technology use among children and teens:
balance, boundaries and communication.
Balance: Families should discuss the right balance between online and
offline time. There is no evidence for a specific screen time limit that applies
to every child. However, families consider approaches ensuring children get
adequate sleep, daily physical activity, time for play and reading and
discovery, time with people they care about, and time to focus on learning
without multitasking.
Boundaries: Boundaries refers to setting limits around what youth are
willing to display about themselves online or on social media, as well as
setting limits on where youth spend their time online or when using tech.
Discussing the types of personal information that are not appropriate to post
on social media sites can help avoid online safety risks such as bullying,
unwanted solicitation or embarrassment.
Communication: Just as with other core areas of child health, parents and
other trusted adults should discuss social media and technology with youth
early and often. It is okay to not know the ins and outs of each platform; try
to create a space where the child feels comfortable discussing their
concerns and experiences using technology.
(Adapted from Preventing Problematic Technology Use)
Educational programs targeting parents, educators, and healthcare professionals can
help identify early signs of addiction and provide support. Implementing guidelines for
responsible internet use, both at home and in educational settings, can help to
maintain a healthy relationship with technology.
The challenge going forward in the ever-changing landscape of technology is “how to
best handle technology with an eye on maximizing its enormous potential for
fulfillment, gratification, and happiness while minimizing its significant risks for
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dissatisfaction, misery, and despair.”