Digital Harms Declared Public Health Crisis by Doctors

Digital harms, amplified by AI and social media, are now recognized as a significant public health issue, according to the Royal College of GPs. Family doctors are witnessing a rise in children experiencing negative impacts from online exposure, including links to self-harm, pornography, and violence. The RCGP has issued a new position statement calling for joint responsibility from government, technology firms, and regulators to protect children's health and development.

In their daily practice, GPs observe cumulative effects of digital harms on children's mental health, sleep patterns, neurodevelopment, and social relationships. The College emphasizes that these online risks contribute to anxiety, low mood, disordered eating, and safeguarding concerns, framing digital harms as a modern determinant of health. They assert that protecting children's wellbeing must be a shared duty, not solely falling on families or clinicians.