Adolescent Mental Health in the Digital Era: Social Media, Screen Time, and Digital Literacy

Background: The increasing exposure of adolescents to digital technologies has raised significant concerns regarding its psychological implications. This narrative review examines the impact of social media use on adolescent mental health, the psychological consequences of excessive screen time, and the role of digital literacy in promoting online safety. Methods: A narrative review was carried out, integrating quantitative and qualitative research on social media use, screen time, and digital literacy. The analysis emphasized key themes identified in studies from the past two decades, with adolescents serving as the primary participants. Results: Prolonged use of social media has been linked to anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem, primarily due to mechanisms of social comparison and the pursuit of approval. Moreover, excessive screen time is associated with social isolation and a decline in social skills, as digital interactions replace face-to-face contact. The concept of digital literacy emerges as a crucial preventive approach, equipping adolescents with the skills to engage with technology responsibly and mitigate psychological risks. Conclusions: Overall, these findings emphasize the importance of balanced technology use and targeted interventions, such as fostering digital literacy, to address the psychological challenges posed by the pervasive use of digital technologies among adolescents.