Digital Well-being for Young People and How You Can Help
Digital well-being is becoming more important each day. Young people use the internet for everything. Connecting with friends on social media, playing games, watching videos, even attending virtual classes. Being online is a big part of their lives.
But just like eating too much candy is bad for your health, too much screen time can also be harmful. Using the internet in unhealthy ways can put young people at risk. They need support for their digital well-being.
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What is digital well-being?
Digital well-being means using technology in a way that is healthy, balanced. It’s about making sure a young person’s mental, physical, and emotional health are not harmed by being online.
Technology can have both positive and negative effects on our wellbeing. So, we need to learn how to maximize the benefits and reduce harms.
Recognize the harm and how to help
There’s an ongoing loneliness epidemic around the world. Device misuse and overuse is a contributing factor. Technology has connected us like never before. But we’re feeling disconnected like never before.
Addressing social connection is just as important for our health as addressing tobacco or alcohol use.
Mental Health: Being chronically online, especially on social media, can lead to anxiety, stress, and depression. Seeing friends having fun can make young people feel left out. Comparing themselves to others, they may feel less confident.
- Help them understand that what they see online isn’t always real life. And to take breaks from social media when they need to.
Physical Health: Sitting in front of a screen for long periods can lead to physical problems like eye strain, headaches, and poor posture. It’s easy to forget to move around and exercise when you’re caught up in games or videos.
- Encourage young people to take regular breaks and be active to stay physically healthy.
Sleep: The blue light from screens can make it harder for young people to fall asleep or get a good night’s rest. This can make them feel tired and grumpy the next day. Or affect their ability to focus in school.
- Suggest a “no screens before bed” rule to help them wind down.
Social Skills: While the internet allows young people to stay connected with friends, they also need to develop real-life social skills.
- Encourage young people to spend time with friends in person. Find a club to join. Or participate in sports to build these important skills.
How you can support digital well-being
As a youth worker, you play a critical role in helping youth manage their digital lives. All of us need to do our part.
Young people are very self-aware. Many already recognize the need for more responsible tech use. These tips will help you support their digital wellbeing:
- Educate About Balance: Teach young people the importance of balancing their online and offline lives. Encourage them to set time limits on screen use. Remind them to make time for physical activity and being with family and friends.
- Promote Positive Online Behavior: Encourage young people to think before they share something online. Talk with them about the importance of being kind and respectful to others. Their actions online can have real-world consequences.
- Create Safe Spaces: Let young people know they can come to you if they experience cyberbullying or see something online that makes them uncomfortable. Providing a safe, supportive environment is key.
- Model Healthy Behavior: Role model healthy digital habits for young people. Don’t check your phone during programming. Make time for breaks from screens. Talk openly about digital wellbeing.
- Use Technology for Good: Suggest using apps for meditation, learning new skills online, or connecting with uplifting communities that support their interests.
Digital well-being is critical for young people’s overall health. Help them understand the importance of using technology in a balanced way. Support them with tips and guidance.
To learn more about the various dimensions of digital well-being, check out YIPA’s training, Digital Wellbeing 101 for Youth Work Professionals. Not yet a YIPA member? Join us!
About the author
Jade Schleif is the training director of the Youth Intervention Programs Association (YIPA), a non-profit association of youth-serving organizations. We're your source for exceptional, affordable, personal and professional online learning via The Professional Youth Worker. Join us!
To ask Jade a question or share your feedback about this blog, email jade@yipa.org.
