Informing Policy Responses to Digital Technology Use and Youth Mental Health and Well-Being: Scoping Review

The mental health of children, adolescents, and youths is a growing concern globally, with increasing prevalence of conditions and help-seeking behavior. Alongside traditional factors, digital determinants are now prominent influences on mental health. With digital platforms integral to young people's lives, and problematic social media use rising, policymakers face the challenge of balancing the benefits and risks of young people's digital technology use. Decisive action is hindered by inconsistent evidence on the impacts of social media and other technology use on mental health and well-being.

In response to requests from WHO Europe Member States for guidance on promoting youth mental health in the digital era, this rapid evidence review examines the complex relationship between digital technology use and youth mental health and well-being, with a focus on social media. The aim of the review was to inform recommendations for policy action and support the activities of the Polish Presidency of the European Council in 2025.

A systematic search of PubMed, PsycNET, and Google Scholar was performed for relevant studies published between January 2020 and December 2024 following a scoping review protocol. Eligibility criteria focused on young people (aged up to 24 years), personal digital technology use, mental health outcomes, English language, peer-reviewed, and conducted within the WHO Europe region or comparable countries. Data were extracted and analyzed using thematic analysis, with findings validated through an expert consultation workshop.

Of 7420 studies, 419 were selected for full-text screening, and 226 (63 reviews and 163 individual studies) met the inclusion criteria. Content analysis reveals mixed evidence on the impact of social media and other technology use on young people's mental health, with more frequent associations between technology use and negative outcomes. Outcomes were influenced by factors like type of use, individual vulnerabilities, and technology design. A significant number of moderating and mediating factors were identified in the literature that shape the relationship between social media use and mental health outcomes and influence the extent or direction of its impact. Many studies include recommendations for future research actions to be taken by technology companies, policymakers, caregivers, educators, and clinicians to both protect young people from digital harms and encourage positive uses of technology.

Despite methodological limitations in current research, there is growing evidence of digital harms and plausible risks to youth mental health, reinforcing the need for a precautionary policy approach. The findings from this review emphasize the importance of balanced governance that protects youths while allowing them to benefit from technology. This evidence review informed 8 recommended policy actions for European governments, including stronger regulation of technology companies, enhanced digital literacy, and continued longitudinal research to inform effective, youth-centered public health interventions.