The Internet is a worldwide network which allows users to access a variety of information, platforms and more. Over the last few years there has been a significant increase in young people accessing the Internet to look at various content and access social media platforms. More recently there has been a growing awareness and increasing concerns regarding what content young people are accessing and the effects it can have on their mental health. This chapter explores young people’s mental health and Internet access, supported by descriptions from four young people who have experienced mental health problems. The Internet has become an integral part of young people’s lives. Young people are spending an increased amount of time accessing the Internet, with 99% of young people being online and 16–24-year-olds spending an average of 3 hours a day online. This chapter explores the impact of Internet use on young people’s mental health. This will include looking at engagement in harmful content, the physical health implications and mental health and well-being implications. It also looks at the helpful impact that access to the Internet can have such as community building, creativity and accessibility, as well as the current safety standards and future research. The chapter concludes with some suggestions and implications for future research, such as regularly updating guidance and more clarity for healthcare professionals. As the Internet rapidly grows and provides content across various platforms, professionals need to be aware and up to date with reliable resources, guidance, risks and trends.

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Internet Use Amongst Young People and Its Influence on Mental Health

  • Elizabeth Harlow,
  • Laura Hales,
  • Isobel McMillan,
  • Gemma Trainor

摘要

The Internet is a worldwide network which allows users to access a variety of information, platforms and more. Over the last few years there has been a significant increase in young people accessing the Internet to look at various content and access social media platforms. More recently there has been a growing awareness and increasing concerns regarding what content young people are accessing and the effects it can have on their mental health. This chapter explores young people’s mental health and Internet access, supported by descriptions from four young people who have experienced mental health problems. The Internet has become an integral part of young people’s lives. Young people are spending an increased amount of time accessing the Internet, with 99% of young people being online and 16–24-year-olds spending an average of 3 hours a day online. This chapter explores the impact of Internet use on young people’s mental health. This will include looking at engagement in harmful content, the physical health implications and mental health and well-being implications. It also looks at the helpful impact that access to the Internet can have such as community building, creativity and accessibility, as well as the current safety standards and future research. The chapter concludes with some suggestions and implications for future research, such as regularly updating guidance and more clarity for healthcare professionals. As the Internet rapidly grows and provides content across various platforms, professionals need to be aware and up to date with reliable resources, guidance, risks and trends.