Helping Teens Feel in Control: Why It Matters for Mental Health
Why It Matters for Mental Health
A recent study from Oxford University found that spending too much time on social media increases anxiety and depression among teenagers. Over 60% of teens between 16 and 18 spend two to four hours a day on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat, with some using them up to eight hours daily. This heavy social media use is linked to poor mental health, partly because teens feel they lack control over their lives—a concept called "agency."
Why Agency Matters
Agency means having control over your actions and understanding their effects. This sense of control is crucial for mental health. The Oxford study showed that when teens feel more agency, their anxiety and depression decrease. For those of us in communications, this means we need to help young people feel empowered, not just informed.
Our goal should be to help young audiences feel involved and in control. Communication strategies should invite teens to participate, not just receive information. Polls, challenges, or interactive content can give young people a voice and help them feel like active participants.
In Brazil, a campaign called 'Vozes Jovens' (Young Voices) engaged teens to co-create content about environmental issues in their communities. By using polls and discussions, the campaign gave them a platform to express their concerns and help shape local policies. This approach boosted their sense of control and led to positive change.
In Europe, the 'Youth Voices for Climate Action' campaign in Denmark also gave teenagers a chance to share their views on climate policies. This type of engagement amplified their voices, influenced real decisions, and made them feel like they mattered.
Better Mental Health Through Control
The Oxford study found that having agency leads to better mental health. To support young people, we need to help them feel more in control. Communications should not only inform—they should empower. Teens need to take part, share their experiences, and make decisions, especially as they figure out their identities.
Putting It into Practice
As a communications consultant, I see a chance to rethink how we engage young people. Instead of just spreading awareness, we need to help them participate actively. In every EU-funded project I'm involved in, we focus on showcasing positive role models and encouraging community interaction to ensure young people feel like they have a voice.
The BrainWaves study aims to bridge the gap between research and real change. In my work, I strive to make campaigns that do more than just inform—they should help young people feel seen, heard, and in control.
A New Approach to Communication
The Oxford study teaches us that giving teens a sense of control can improve their mental health. For communicators, this means creating messages that empower. Whether through interactive campaigns or direct involvement, we need to put young people at the centre of their own stories.
Teenagers are facing significant mental health challenges due to social media pressures. Our role is to create content that inspires action, gives a sense of control, and supports their wellbeing. This isn’t just effective—it’s responsible communication.
“Take Action Today - If you communicate with young people, think about how your messages can give them a sense of control. Interactive content, discussions, and campaigns that amplify their voices can make a big difference. Let’s work together to create communication strategies that truly support youth mental health.”
