Staying away from social media can feel like being cut off from everyday life. Scrolling through reels, sharing photos and watching short videos are now part of daily routine. Posting happy and perfect moments has become the ‘new normal’. While social media helps people stay connected, doctors and mental health experts are worried about how constant use is affecting children’s growing minds.
How these social media platforms interact with the developing brain
Many countries are now considering age limits and rules, making parents and teachers think more seriously about the long-term effects of children using social media too early and too often.
“Childhood and early adolescence are critical phases of brain development. Neural pathways are still forming, emotional capacities are evolving, and the foundations of attention and self-regulation are being laid,” said Dr Vinit Banga, Director of Neurology at Fortis Hospital, Faridabad. “At this stage, external influences have a much deeper impact, and social media has become one of the strongest influences in a child’s environment.”
Short attention spans
According to Dr Banga, regular use of social media begins shaping the young brain through systems of quick rewards. Likes, comments and shares offer instant stimulation, training the brain to expect fast responses.
“When this becomes the primary source of engagement, the brain adapts to constant novelty and immediate feedback,” Dr Banga explained. “This affects patience and the ability to focus on tasks that demand time and sustained attention. The endless switching between apps further divides concentration, which is especially harmful because the brain’s focus and impulse-control networks are still developing.”
Teachers and parents often notice that children exposed to high screen time struggle to stay engaged with studies, reading or creative play. Over time, this pattern can interfere with the brain’s natural ability to manage attention and delay gratification.
Emotional impact of social media on young minds
Social media also affects children’s emotions. Children often compare themselves with others, and social media increases this habit.
“Children are repeatedly exposed to idealised versions of life, bodies and success,” Dr Banga said. “They begin measuring themselves against what they see online, and this quietly lowers self-esteem. Negative comments, criticism and the pressure to present a perfect image increase stress, especially in young minds that are still forming their identity,” he further said.
Repeated exposure to online judgement can affect mood, confidence and emotional flexibility. For some children, this may show up as irritability, withdrawal or increased anxiety.
Why limiting early exposure helps
Doctors say that limiting or delaying access to social media at a young age can reduce many of these risks. When children are removed from the constant cycle of comparison and online validation, noticeable changes often follow.
“Reduced exposure can ease anxiety and sadness, and it often leads to better sleep,” Dr Banga shares. “Late-night scrolling and constant notifications keep the mind active when it should be resting. When these are removed, children are able to relax, sleep better and feel more emotionally settled.”
Lower screen time also means reduced exposure to cyberbullying and harmful content. With more time spent on real-world friendships, outdoor play and hobbies, children tend to feel more grounded and supported through face-to-face connections.
How social media affects brain health in longer run
Keeping children away from social media for much of their childhood helps their brains develop in a healthier way. Attention spans strengthen when there are fewer digital interruptions, and emotional control improves through real-life interactions.
“Real-world experiences with family, teachers and peers play a major role in building resilience,” Dr Banga said. “These interactions help children learn how to manage emotions, handle conflict and build confidence without relying on online approval.”
Unstructured play and hands-on learning also support creativity, memory and problem-solving by allowing the brain to fully engage with its surroundings instead of reacting to constant digital cues.
Mental health risks highlighted by psychologists
Psychologists also worry that early use of social media is linked to rising mental health problems in children.
“Restricting or delaying social media at a young age can significantly reduce the risk of anxiety, depression and sleep disturbances,” said Dr Supriya Mallik, Consultant Developmental Psychologist at Embrace X Madhukar Rainbow Children’s Hospital, Delhi. “At this stage, children are still learning how to form their identity and regulate emotions. When social media enters too early, they are exposed to unrealistic comparisons, online bullying and a constant need for validation.”
Dr Mallik added that self-worth often becomes tied to likes and comments rather than healthy, real-world relationships, making children emotionally vulnerable.
Sleep disruption and academic impact
Experts also warn about the impact of excessive screen time on sleep. Social media platforms are designed to be addictive, encouraging prolonged use that often extends late into the night.
“Blue-light exposure from screens suppresses melatonin, which directly affects sleep quality,” Dr Mallik said. “Poor sleep leads to irritability, reduced attention span and lower academic performance, creating a cycle that affects both mental and physical health.”
How to find a balanced path?
Even though there are risks, completely banning social media may not be the right answer. Many believe it’s better to introduce it slowly and with guidance.
“Healthy online habits begin with informed boundaries,” Dr Mallik said. “Active parental monitoring, digital literacy education in schools and clear screen-time rules can help children learn responsible use.”
As countries continue to discuss rules around social media, one thing is clear. Giving children more time to grow emotionally before exposing them to the digital world can help protect their mental health.