Reducing the Harms of Social Media for Youth: An Urgent Call for Comprehensive Action

Many countries are investigating options to reduce the risks of social media (SM) for children. This is driven by: evidence of harm; deteriorating mental health in youth; a lack of evidence for the current SM minimum age of 13 years; extensive underage use of these platforms; and, recognition of the challenges parents face in managing this issue. Specific to the eating disorder field, SM is highly visual with constant image and video-based content that can give young users the message that their appearance, shape and weight are important features of self-worth; and the exposure to such content in late childhood and early adolescence is at the very stage of development when acceptance by peers is of the highest importance, making these messages even more potent and potentially harmful. On November 29, 2024, Australia passed legislation to delay SM access until 16 years of age. It is the first country in the world to pass such legislation, with this taking effect from December 10, 2025. This Forum outlines the considerations that led to this legislation, the debate on changes to SM minimum age and, historical comparisons for legislative changes in other areas to improve safety. Further it highlights the need for a comprehensive response, including wide-scale dissemination of evidence-based prevention and early intervention programs, and increased evidence-informed support for parents and schools. Decisive action is urgently needed to protect and improve the wellbeing of youth.