Social media and Nigerian children’s mental health

Social media has become an inseparable part of daily life. From WhatsApp conversations that span continents to the addictive pull of TikTok challenges, these platforms shape how people interact and view the world. For many, especially the young, social media offers an escape from reality, a digital playground full of entertainment and connection. But behind the captivating filters and viral trends lies a deeper, more troubling truth — social media’s impact on the mental health of children.

In Nigeria, where the use of social media has grown exponentially, this issue is both timely and urgent. Children and teenagers, who are often at the forefront of new trends, spend hours scrolling through platforms like Instagram and Snapchat, seeking validation through likes and comments. With limited recreational facilities, social media fills a gap, offering young people a sense of belonging and excitement. Yet, it is a double-edged sword.

As children are drawn into the curated world of online perfection, many begin to compare their lives to the idealised images they see on their screens. Flawless beauty, expensive lifestyles, and carefully constructed narratives dominate their feeds, leaving young minds vulnerable to feelings of inadequacy. For a Nigerian child already grappling with societal and academic pressures, this can intensify a growing sense of failure.

Beyond the images and videos lies another hidden danger — social media platforms that collect data on users, including children, without proper consent. In Nigeria, where the data protection laws are not yet fully robust, this raises serious concerns. Companies use algorithms to predict and influence behaviours, often exposing children to harmful content or encouraging unhealthy habits. What begins as innocent scrolling can quickly spiral into exposure to content that exacerbates anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem.

Mental health, a topic often stigmatised in Nigerian culture, is at the heart of this crisis. Children who are struggling with feelings of loneliness, rejection, or sadness frequently turn to social media as a distraction, only to find their insecurities deepening. The pressure to perform well in school, fulfil family expectations, and conform to societal norms creates a heavy burden. When the likes or comments fail to come, many children internalise it as a reflection of their worth.

For parents, the world of social media can feel overwhelming. Some see it as a harmless way for their children to stay entertained, while others, burdened by work or financial struggles, may not have the resources or time to closely monitor their children’s online lives. Conversations about the emotional impact of social media are often brushed aside, leaving children to navigate its complexities alone. Schools, too, are grappling with how to address this issue. While some private institutions in Nigeria are introducing lessons on digital safety, many public schools lack the funding or infrastructure to do so.

Recent developments, like Australia’s decision to ban social media for children under 16, offer food for thought. While such a policy might seem drastic, it highlights the need to rethink how social media platforms are designed and regulated. Nigerian policymakers could draw inspiration from this by implementing stricter rules that protect children from harmful content and excessive data collection. Platforms must also take responsibility, creating safeguards that limit exposure to harmful trends and prioritise children’s well-being over profit.

At home, parents and caregivers must step up as the first line of defence. Simple steps, like limiting screen time, encouraging open discussions about emotions, and fostering offline activities, can help children build resilience. For educators, the opportunity lies in creating school environments that support mental health and emotional intelligence, equipping children with tools to navigate the challenges of growing up in a digital world.

Addressing this issue requires collective effort. Governments, families, schools, and social media companies must work together to ensure that digital spaces are safe and nurturing. Social media is not inherently bad. It has the potential to inspire creativity, build communities, and educate. But without careful oversight, its impact can be damaging, particularly to young and impressionable minds.

For Nigeria’s children, the promise of a brighter future lies not in banning social media entirely but in finding a balanced approach that prioritises their mental health and well-being. It is a challenge we must meet with urgency, compassion, and the belief that every child deserves to grow up feeling seen, valued, and supported in both the physical and digital worlds.

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