A Halifax psychologist is asking parents to be vigilant about their child’s screen use and its affect on their mental health.
Dr. Daniel Chorney specializes in anxiety, depression and OCD in youth. He says social media and excessive screen time can often have a negative impact on teens.
“Greater social media use is correlated with higher rates of anxiety symptoms, depressive symptoms, poor sleep quality, and loneliness,” he said.
He points out however that while there’s a correlation, not enough research has been done to rule it as a cause. He says researchers and medical professionals aren’t sure which way it goes. It could also be that teens showing those symptoms just use social media more.
According to research, Chorney says teens are averaging 2+ hours a day on social media, and 6+ hours on the internet.
“It’s getting harder and harder to get teens away from their phone or screen time or social media use. It can be impairing. They can be sleeping with their phones, they’re checking day and night,” he said.
Chorney spoke to parents of students at Harbourview High School in Saint John last Thursday, where he gave a presentation on the topic and provided helpful advice.
He has three tips for parents who are worried about their child’s online behavior and use.
First, educate yourself on social media, and what your child is doing online.
“Talk with your kids and teens about what they’re into, what social media sites or apps that they’re using. Just open up a dialogue and get them chatting a little bit,’ he said.
As well, educate them on what risks exist online, like scams and predators, as well as how to spend money responsibly. Do this early so bad habits aren’t formed.
He also says to role model good social media habits, and increasing “face time.” He suggests a one to one ratio of screen time to face time hours in order to reduce use.
