It is unlikely that a ban on social media for under-16s will have a meaningful impact on young people’s mental health. My concern is that this policy risks becoming a distraction from the complex factors that drive poor mental health among young people, and may lead to unintended consequences. For many young people, particularly those who are vulnerable, isolated or struggling, social media provides important opportunities for connection, support and belonging. Online communities can offer access to peer support, shared experiences and sources of help that may not be available elsewhere. In some cases, these platforms can have a protective effect.
There is also a risk that young people who experience harm online may be less likely to disclose their experiences or seek support if their social media use is driven underground. Restrictions may simply encourage a shift to less regulated platforms, making young people harder to reach and potentially less safe.
Rather than focusing on restriction, we should invest in equipping young people with the skills to navigate the online world safely and confidently. Every child should have access to comprehensive education on digital citizenship, online relationships, critical thinking and recognising harmful content and behaviours.
At the same time, the Executive must address the wider causes of poor mental health, including poverty, social exclusion, discrimination, educational pressure and family stress. If we are serious about improving young people’s wellbeing, we need evidence-based policies, developed with young people themselves, that tackle the root causes of distress and provide the support, skills and opportunities they need to thrive.