JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

The mental health of children, adolescents and youth is a growing concern globally, with increasing prevalence of conditions and help-seeking behaviour. Alongside traditional factors, digital determinants are now prominent influences on mental health. With digital platforms integral to young people's lives, and problematic social media use rising, policymakers face the challenge of balancing benefits and risks of technology use. Decisive action is currently hindered by inconsistent evidence on the impacts of social media and technology use on mental health and well-being. Given the plausible risks, adopting the precautionary principle in policymaking is warranted to protect young people from harm.

Objective:

This scoping review examines the complex relationship between digital technology use and youth mental health and well-being, prompted by requests from WHO Europe Member States for guidance on promoting youth mental health in the digital era. The aim of the rapid evidence review was to inform recommendations for policy action and support the activities of the Polish Presidency of the European Council in 2025.

Methods:

A systematic search of PubMed, PsychNET and Google Scholar was performed for relevant studies published between January 2020 to December 2024. Eligibility criteria focused on young people (aged up to 24), personal digital technology use, mental health outcomes, English language, peer-reviewed and conducted within the WHO Europe region or comparable countries. Data were extracted and analysed using thematic analysis, with findings validated through an expert consultation workshop.

Results:

Out of 7,420 studies, 419 were selected for full text screening and 226 met the inclusion criteria. Content analysis reveals mixed evidence on the impact of social media on young people's mental health, influenced by factors like type of use, individual vulnerabilities and technology design. A significant number of moderating and mediating factors were identified in the literature that shape the relationship between social media use and mental health outcomes, and influence the extent or direction of its impact. Many studies include recommendations for future research actions to be taken by technology companies, policymakers, caregivers, educators and clinicians to both protect young people from digital harms and encourage positive uses of technology.

Conclusions:

Despite methodological limitations in current research, there is growing evidence of digital harms and plausible risks to youth mental health, reinforcing the need for a precautionary policy approach. The findings from this review emphasize the need for balanced governance that protects youth while allowing them to benefit from technology. This scoping review informed eight recommended policy actions for European governments, including stronger regulation of technology companies, enhanced digital literacy, and continued longitudinal research to inform effective, youth-centered public health interventions. Clinical Trial: N/A