Children who use social media for more than three hours a day show higher rates of anxiety and depression as teenagers, according to research from Imperial College London. The study tracked 2,350 schoolchildren across London over several years.
Participants were assessed between ages 11-12 and again at 13-15 through cognitive tests and questionnaires on digital habits, mental health, and lifestyle. Those online more than three hours daily were significantly more likely to report depressive symptoms than peers spending 30 minutes or less online.
Researchers attribute the link largely to disrupted sleep, particularly among girls who use platforms late into the night. Prof Mireille Toledano of Imperial’s Mohn Centre said extended evening use cuts essential rest, impacting long-term mental health.
The UK government is currently consulting on possible restrictions for under-16s, following Australia’s December 2025 ban on social media for minors under 16, which deactivated millions of accounts. However, Toledano urges caution, noting insufficient evidence that bans alone will resolve youth mental health challenges.
Experts call for improved digital literacy and sleep education in schools. Dr Chen Shen from Imperial’s School of Public Health emphasized the need for ongoing research, as social media platforms have evolved drastically since the study’s data collection ended in 2018.