The Impact of Social Media on Children's Mental Health
Experts have pointed out that social media algorithms create a vicious cycle for children's mental health due to triggering negative content and the risk of social contagion.
Doctors at the Mental Health Institute of Bach Mai Hospital have drawn attention to the negative effects of social media on children's mental health. Experts issued important warnings based on the case of a 15-year-old girl experiencing academic pressure and loneliness who developed self-harming behavior due to negative content on social media.
Case Analysis and Hospital Process
A 15-year-old student named M.A., entering the tenth grade, was brought to the Mental Health Institute of Bach Mai Hospital after her family noticed numerous wounds on her arms. It was determined that the student was introverted, depressive, and experiencing a lack of concentration.
Social Media and the Algorithm Cycle
Experts stated that as the student watched content related to loneliness and negative experiences, the algorithm continuously recommended similar materials. Long-term phone use at night led to sleep deprivation and emotional imbalance.
Cyberbullying and Repetition of Behavior
M.A., who became the subject of mockery on the school's confession page, started harming herself after being influenced by images she saw on the internet following an argument with her family, and she repeated this behavior during moments of stress.
Experts' Warnings on Social Contagion and Risks
Dr. Nguyen Thanh Long emphasized that social media is not the sole cause, but it increases the risk in vulnerable children through the mechanism of social contagion. Cyberbullying and sleep deprivation are also among the significant risk factors.
Solutions for Families and Schools
Experts stated that the solution is not simply banning social media. It was emphasized that families and schools need to maintain open communication with children, observe unusual changes, and seek professional support if necessary.