Home / Health / Teens Face Social Media Withdrawal: Experts Warn of Grief
Teens Face Social Media Withdrawal: Experts Warn of Grief
29 Nov
Summary
- Teens may experience grief, anxiety, and mood swings during social media ban.
- Experts advise parents to plan activities and offer support during adjustment.
- Positive outcomes include better sleep and social skills; negative ones, loneliness.
Experts are warning parents that adolescents may experience significant emotional and behavioral changes, akin to a grief process, when subjected to social media restrictions. These reactions can include denial, anger, sadness, and restlessness, mirroring classic dependence and adjustment patterns. Psychologists emphasize the importance of parental support, advising families to anticipate challenges like boredom and FOMO, particularly during school holidays when device reliance is highest.
To mitigate these effects, professionals suggest collaborative planning, including saving cherished digital content and establishing alternative communication methods with friends. Parents are encouraged to maintain calm, offer patience, and introduce new hobbies or physical activities. Monitoring for severe distress is crucial, with resources like the Kids Help Line and GPs available for support. The adjustment period is expected to last several weeks, with potential for improved wellbeing and social skills.
As teens navigate this transition, fostering new routines and encouraging offline socialisation are key strategies. The goal is to help them develop resilient coping mechanisms and explore alternative interests. While occasional nostalgia or fear of missing out may persist, sustained healthy habits and open communication are vital. For ongoing struggles with anxiety or depression, professional intervention from GPs or mental health services is recommended to support long-term adjustment.
