Problematic Social Media Use Interventions for Mental Health Outcomes in Adolescents

To narratively review recent literature addressing interventions aimed at reducing detrimental mental health effects of problematic social media use (PSMU) among adolescents aged 10-20.

The narrative review identified varying strengths and weaknesses of different types of interventions, which included therapy-based interventions (i.e., cognitive dissonance, self-compassion, mindfulness), media literacy, and social media limits. Moreover, features varied across interventions (i.e., duration, peer involvement, delivery format, setting). Programs that teach adolescents cognitive or behavioral strategies to engage with social media in a healthy manner appear to be more effective at improving long-term well-being than interventions that completely restrict social media use or warn adolescents of its negative effects. Tailoring interventions to the specific contextual factors salient to an individual or group may maximize the effectiveness and long-term impact of reducing PMSU and improving overall well-being. Future research should focus on longitudinal data to evaluate sustained intervention impacts.