Pediatric Headache in the Age of Social Media: A Topical Review

The aims of this topical review are to (1) summarize existing literature over the last 5 years investigating the effects of social media use on headaches in children and adolescents; (2) propose potential risks and benefits of social media use relevant to pediatric headache; and (3) offer future directions for research and clinical care in this area.

Few studies have examined social media effects in youth with headache disorders. Limited available survey data suggests increased duration social media use may be associated with increased pediatric headache incidence and intensity, though with significant limitations identified in study designs and methodological approaches. Notably, no studies found examined potential benefits of social media for youth with headaches. We propose considering both risks and benefits of social media effects for youth with headache given their potential to influence key pain-related and lifestyle domains including physical activity, sleep, mental health, and health-related knowledge. Further research utilizing longitudinal study designs and objective measures are needed to better understand the effects of social media on pain and health-related outcomes in youth with headaches.