Teens who struggle to log off social media could face increased ADHD symptoms over time
A five-year study published in JAMA Network Open suggests a link between problematic social media use in teenagers and the subsequent development of ADHD symptoms. The findings indicate that constant digital engagement may negatively impact the developing brain.
Why it matters
This research provides evidence for the potential long-term mental health consequences of excessive social media consumption among adolescents.
edited by Sadie Harley , reviewed by Robert Egan
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Add as preferred source When adolescents reported more problematic social media use than usual, parents reported slightly more ADHD symptoms a year later. Credit: Pexels Social media has become as much a part of our daily lives as eating or sleeping. What started as a way for people to connect and share pictures has grown into a billion-dollar industry that shapes medical, political, and cultural narratives. Its algorithms are designed to keep people coming back, raising questions about how this constant engagement may affect the developing brain.
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