In recent months, social media bans have emerged as a significant topic of discussion across various nations. Australia made headlines in December 2025 by introducing a ban on social media for anyone under the age of 16. Following closely, Indonesia enacted similar restrictions. In contrast, the European Union is implementing different guidelines, prohibiting social media access for children under 13 and restricting personal accounts for those under 15. This wave of regulation is a response to growing concerns regarding the influence of social media on young people's mental health.
As legal scrutiny intensifies, tech companies are adapting. Meta, for example, faces legal challenges in the U.S. and has recently agreed to a settlement of up to $18 billion due to claims that its platforms, primarily Facebook and Instagram, have negatively impacted children's mental health. As part of its response, Meta will introduce features like hiding the number of “likes” on posts for younger users, but it remains uncertain whether such changes will make a substantial impact on their online behaviors.
This shift towards regulatory action provides a unique opportunity for researchers to conduct rigorous evaluations of the consequences of social media restrictions. Given that nearly half of mental health issues surface before the age of 18, understanding these impacts is essential. Questions surrounding whether the changes in digital environments will positively impact young people's mental health and wellbeing must be explored thoroughly.
Determining the overall effect of social media on teenagers involves more than simply labeling it as “good” or “bad.” Research needs to delve into how modifying their digital surroundings may correlate with changes in mental health and overall wellbeing. Current evidence suggests there will not be a uniform impact across all demographics.
Specific influences on outcomes may be tied to factors such as age, pre-existing mental health conditions, sleep patterns, gender, socioeconomic backgrounds, and urban versus rural residency. The use of social media can provide pivotal community support, especially for marginalized youth, including those identifying as LGBTQ+. Understanding the individual experiences of users is vital in assessing the implications of these restrictions.
Initial evaluations in Australia indicate that age verification for social media platforms poses significant challenges in maintaining compliance with the new laws. A study published in the British Medical Journal revealed minimal change in social media usage three months post-ban. Reports show that over 80% of children were still accessing restricted platforms, often bypassing verification measures.
Researchers also observed that many teenagers retain a belief that their peers are still using banned platforms. This peer influence can play a critical role in adolescents’ decision-making processes concerning social media use. As a result, successful implementation may hinge on addressing the social dynamics of online engagement as well as technological solutions.
The U.K. government plans to introduce its social media ban in Spring 2027. Institutions like Wellcome, a major global philanthropic organization, are preparing to fund studies assessing the impact of these restrictions on youth mental health. Research efforts will involve collaboration with thousands of teenagers, ensuring that the perspectives of young individuals are integral to the evaluation process.
Consultations with young people have emphasized the importance of evaluating the broader role social media plays in their lives. Rather than focusing solely on potential harm, young respondents highlighted the necessity of exploring what alternative activities they may engage in if access is restricted. Evaluations will consider whether teens shift their time towards cultivating hobbies, improving sleep quality, or enhancing academic performance, or whether they face increased boredom or venture into unregulated online spaces.
Current regulatory shifts present an unprecedented opportunity for comparing impacts across different regions. This includes observing the outcomes of Australia’s bans, the forthcoming U.K. regulations, and evolving policies across the European Union. Research findings will not only inform future interventions aimed at improving youth mental health but could significantly shape how society understands and manages the complexities of digital environments for generations to come. Understanding these dynamics is crucial as societies consider the balance between access to social media and the wellbeing of young individuals.
Camilla Iannone is research lead in the mental health evidence team at Wellcome.
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