Studies which assert that digital media is devastating for the mental health of young adults fluctuates. Over the past few years, the evidence has started to pile up that it may not be digital media itself which causes depression, anxiety, stress, eating disorders, and other body image related issues in teens, among other mental health issues. What has become obvious is that the amount of time young adults spend engrossed in the worlds flashing across the screens of their digital devices and the nature of their activity does have a significant effect on mental health. How widespread the negative effects of digital media has become continues to grow and the way that digital media affects mental health continues to expand.
USA Today reports on a new study published in the Journal of Abnormal Psychology, which is run by the American Psychological Association which found a significant increase in the amount of teens who report symptoms of major depression. The data of teens ranged from 2005 and 2017 looking at the symptoms they report for the last 12 months at the time of a screening. Over that period of time, the reports of depression symptoms increased 52%. In addition to symptoms of major depression, the data revealed an increase in reports of “serious psychological distress and suicidal thoughts or suicide-related outcomes during similar time periods.” If you are struggling with thoughts of suicide in any capacity, you are not alone. Please reach out for help by calling the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.
Other studies have indicated an increase in the amount of digital media use among teens, young adults, and even older adults. Though no single study has been able to confirm causation, meaning verify without argument that excess digital media use leads to depression or mental health struggles, the correlation and trend cannot be ignored.
Digital media has the potential to change and enrich our lives, but we haven’t quite found the way to do that as of yet. As we continue to grow in the modern digital age, our understanding of how we let technology affect us needs to grow as well.
At The Guest House Ocala, we offer residential treatment programs specialized for the care of traumas, addictions, and related mental health issues. Call us today for information on our trauma treatment programs and our concierge style customization for every guest: 1-855-483-7800