A guide for parents, carers, and young people navigating the digital world.
Social media is woven into the daily lives of every child and teenager in Ireland. Recent research from the National Suicide Research Foundation (NSRF) highlights both the risks and the benefits of growing up online, and why the conversation needs to be more nuanced than simply “ban it” or “allow it.”
This article breaks down the findings in everyday language, helping families make informed, balanced decisions.
Why this research matters
Only a tiny percentage of Irish children aged 8–15 is not using social media, even though many platforms technically require users to be 13 or older. At the same time, governments worldwide, including Ireland, are debating whether the minimum age should be raised to 16.
The NSRF’s review shows that while social media can pose risks, it can also offer meaningful support and connection. The key message is clear: the impact of social media depends on how it is used; not just how much it is used.
What the research says about risks
The evidence does not prove that social media causes suicide or self-harm. But it does show strong links between certain types of use and poorer mental health outcomes. These include:
- Problematic or excessive use When social media becomes compulsive or interferes with sleep, school, or relationships, risks increase.
- Exposure to harmful content This includes self-harm imagery, pro-suicide content, or extreme dieting/appearance pressures.
- Cyberbullying Online bullying is strongly associated with depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts.
- Sleep disruption Night-time scrolling affects mood, concentration, and emotional regulation.
- Displacement of healthy activities Less physical activity, fewer hobbies, and reduced face-to-face interaction can all impact wellbeing.
Some studies even suggest that receiving a smartphone before age 13 may be linked to poorer mental health in young adulthood.
But it is not all negative—there are real benefits too.
Social media can also be a lifeline, especially for young people who feel isolated or different. Research highlights:
- Identity development Teens explore interests, values, and communities that help them understand themselves.
- Connection and belonging Online friendships can support mental health, especially for LGBTQ+ youth or those who feel alone offline.
- Peer supports Many young people use social media to seek help, share experiences, and find encouragement.
Importantly, active, meaningful engagement (messaging friends, sharing content, participating in groups) tends to be healthier than passive scrolling, which is linked to more negative outcomes.
Should the age limit be raised to 16?
Countries like Australia have already introduced under‑16 bans, and others, including Ireland, are considering similar laws. But the research is clear:
- There is no solid evidence yet that raising the age limit to 16 will reduce harm.
- Bans alone rarely work; young people often find ways around restrictions.
- Strict bans may push children toward less regulated, more dangerous corners of the internet.
- What does help is a harm‑reduction approach: digital literacy, emotional skills, and supportive conversations.
In other words, the solution is not simply “take the phone away.” It is about teaching young people how to navigate the online world safely and confidently.
What needs to happen next:
The NSRF identifies several priority areas to protect young people:
1. Understand how young people use social media
Not just how much time they spend, but what they see, how they interact, and why they use it.
2. Study the pathways between social media and mental health
This includes sleep, coping skills, cyberbullying, and exposure to harmful content.
3. Use better research methods
Future studies should use real-time data, not just self-reported surveys.
4. Include diverse groups
LGBTQ+ youth, neurodivergent young people, ethnic minorities, and those with existing mental health challenges need to be represented.
5. Evaluate harm‑reduction strategies
This includes:
- age‑verification tools
- parental education
- digital citizenship programmes
- platform‑based protections.
6. Promote digital resilience
Teaching young people emotional regulation, critical thinking, and help‑seeking skills is essential.
7. Involve young people in the research
Their voices must shape the solutions.
What this means for parents and young people
For parents & guardians
- Keep communication open. Ask about your child’s online world the same way you ask about school or friends.
- Focus on how they use social media, not just screen time.
- Model healthy digital habits.
- Encourage offline activities, sleep routines, and boundaries.
- Learn about the platforms they use—together.
For young people
- Notice how social media makes you feel.
- Unfollow accounts that make you anxious, insecure, or upset.
- Reach out if you see harmful content or feel overwhelmed.
- Remember: your worth is not measured in likes, views, or followers.
- You deserve safe, supportive online spaces.
A balanced way forward
Social media is neither entirely harmful nor entirely safe. It is a powerful tool—one that can support wellbeing or undermine it depending on how it is used. The research encourages a balanced, compassionate approach that empowers young people rather than restricting them without support.
Families, schools, policymakers, and tech companies all have a role to play. Most importantly, young people themselves must be part of the conversation.
If you or someone you know is struggling, support is available. Turn2Me offers free, anonymous, and professional mental health support online.
You are not alone, and help is always within reach.