The recent landmark US court case against Meta and Google, which awarded $6 million in damages for mental health issues linked to excessive platform use, serves as a crucial wake-up call for the tech giants. It underscores the urgent need for these platforms to take responsibility and do better safeguarding the mental health of young users. Meta contended that mental health is a complex issue not solely attributable to its platform, but evidence suggests that social media can have significant adverse effects, especially when used excessively. Hence, it might not have a direct impact, but is believed by many to have at least an indirect impact on the mental well-being of young people.
Research has long established a positive correlation between compulsive social media use and mental health problems such as depression, anxiety, and insomnia (Facebook Depression, a 2013 study in the Journal of Adolescent Health, Jelenchick, Eickhoff, and Moreno). The addictive nature of social media algorithms, designed to maximize user engagement, can intensify these issues. These algorithms are crafted to keep users hooked, often leading to overreliance, especially among young people. Prolonged exposure to fragmented microblog content, for instance, can impair information comprehension and cognitive development, with lasting effects on adolescents (Does Micro-blogging Make Us ‘Shallow’?, a 2016 study in Computers in Human Behavior, Jiang, Hou, and Wang). Social media companies are aware of these risks, yet their platforms continue to prioritize engagement over user well-being.
In Hong Kong, over 83 percent of the population has social media accounts, with many using these platforms to “kill time” or stay connected with family and friends (Social Media Statistics for Hong Kong, Zhao, H (2025)). While these reasons seem benign, the influence of powerful algorithms can turn such needs into involuntary overuse. The targeted content often creates a cycle of endless information streams, making self-regulation difficult for young users. Despite the availability of features like time limits, only 1.1 percent of young users activate these tools (Zuckerberg Defends Meta in Landmark Social Media Addiction Trial, BBC, Hays, K (2026)), highlighting the ineffectiveness of relying solely on platform-provided solutions. The sophisticated nature of social media algorithms renders minors’ self-control mechanisms almost powerless, prompting countries like Australia and France to introduce legal measures such as age restrictions. Indonesia has gone a step further by banning children from having accounts on platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Facebook. Meanwhile, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government is still studying the impact of digital media on the mental health of young people, with no concrete policies yet in place (LCQ11: “Impact of Social Media on Children and Adolescents”. HKSAR, 2026).
Social media offers both risks and benefits. Its potential to enhance social and educational development is significant, but unchecked use can jeopardize mental health. A balanced approach — combining legal regulation, corporate responsibility, digital literacy education, and active parental involvement — is essential
However, it is vital to recognize that social media is not inherently harmful. When used appropriately, these platforms can foster social connection, self-expression, and learning. Authentic self-presentation online has been linked to increased subjective well-being (Authenticity and Well-being on Social Network Sites, a 2014 study in Computers in Human Behavior, Reinecke and Trepte), and social media can serve as a valuable tool for adolescents seeking belonging and identity. The key lies in promoting safe and healthy use, rather than imposing bans or containment policies. Education on digital literacy and responsible use emerges as a more sustainable strategy, equipping young users with the skills to navigate online spaces safely. Additionally, providing alternative activities for young people can reduce reliance on social media as a primary source of entertainment and socialization.
Parents play a pivotal role during their children’s developmental years. As role models, they can demonstrate healthy social media habits and guide their children through active and empowering digital parenting approaches. This involves participatory learning — parents engaging with social media themselves, understanding its risks, and exploring together how to use it responsibly. It also includes remote monitoring — granting appropriate autonomy while maintaining oversight through technological tools. Studies show that constructive parent-child communication about social media fosters trust and understanding, whereas excessive restrictions can widen the generational gap (Are Confident Parents Really Aware of Children’s Online Risks?, a 2023 study published in the International Journal of Bullying Prevention, Kuldas, Sargioti, Staksrud, Heaney, and Norman (2024); Trust Us! We Know What We Are Doing!, published in the Journal of Children and Media, Page Jeffery (2024)). Practical steps include establishing age-appropriate rules, setting boundaries on time and content, and utilizing features like WhatsApp’s parental supervision account to manage contacts while respecting privacy.
Meanwhile, governments and platforms share responsibility for creating a safer digital environment. Institutional safeguards — such as age verification and content moderation — must be strengthened. Platforms should assume technical responsibility for protecting vulnerable users, while policies can enforce age restrictions and limit exposure to harmful content. The societal consequences of neglecting these responsibilities are profound; without intervention, mental health issues among youth are likely to escalate, leading to long-term societal costs.
In conclusion, social media offers both risks and benefits. Its potential to enhance social and educational development is significant, but unchecked use can jeopardize mental health. A balanced approach — combining legal regulation, corporate responsibility, digital literacy education, and active parental involvement — is essential. We must act swiftly to mitigate harm, recognizing that the future of young people’s mental well-being depends on how effectively we manage our digital environment today.
The author is the director of the Hong Kong Jockey Club Centre for Suicide Research and Prevention, the University of Hong Kong.
The views do not necessarily reflect those of China Daily.
