Social media and mental health

The impact of social media on mental health and ways to improve your digital wellbeing

Social media has become a normal part of everyday life. Some people use it to stay up to date with friends, check out the latest dance trends, or connect with online communities.

This page looks at the effects social media can have on our mental health, including social media anxiety. It also explores the positive benefits of social media, guidelines for healthy social media use, as well as online mental health resources.

Understanding Australia's social media rules for under 16s

Starting 10 December 2025, new Australian laws mean many social media platforms can’t let anyone under 16 create or keep an account.

We explain what this law means, how it might affect young people and families, and give you some simple tips to help support the young people in your life as they deal with these changes.

Learn more about the new social media laws

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The negative impacts of social media on mental health

There are also other factors that may lead to social media doing more harm than good. For example, it can take away from physical activity, getting enough sleep and quality time (face-to-face) with friends. Social media also increases exposure to cyberbullying, abuse, hate speech and distressing content that can escalate quickly in an anonymous online environment.

Social media and mental health

The impact of social media on mental health and ways to improve your digital wellbeing

On this page

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What is social media?

Traditional social media

Other types of social media

What is not social media

Tips for healthy social media use

Set time limits

Unplug occasionally

Go offline and get outside

Remember it’s a business

Curate your feed

The positive and negative impacts of social media on mental health

The positive impacts of social media on mental health

Connectivity and community

Access to information and support

The normalisation of mental health conditions

The negative impacts of social media on mental health

Mental health issues and social media use

Social media comparison and validation

Social media effects on wellbeing

Exposure to distressing content on social media

How parents can talk to their children about social media

1. Recognise the signs of concern

2. Start with empathy and understanding

3. Lead by example and set clear boundaries

4. Seek professional support when needed

5. Put your own oxygen mask on first – take care of yourself

Key takeaways for parents and caregivers

Social media statistics

said the effect was both positive and negative

said it was generally positive

said it was generally negative

to connect with family and friends

for learning and entertainment

to connect with people with similar interests

taking people away from other activities

making people feel bad about themselves

Valuable information and resources on online safety

Signs that social media is affecting your mental health

Beyond Blue and the social media ban

Get professional help

Kids Helpline

Beyond Blue

eSafety Commissioner

Further information and resources

Control your notifications

Beat the infinite scroll

Learn about cyberbullying