What is the one-world religion described in Revelation?

 

Social media children mental health.

Social media can have both positive and negative effects on children's mental health, with excessive use linked to increased risks of depression and anxiety.

Positive Effects of Social Media
Connection and Community: Social media can provide children and teens with a sense of belonging and community.

It allows them to connect with peers who share similar interests or identities, which can be particularly beneficial for those who feel isolated in their immediate environments.

Access to Information: Platforms can serve as valuable resources for information and support, helping young people navigate challenges and seek help when needed.

Negative Effects of Social Media
Increased Risk of Mental Health Issues: The U.S. Surgeon General's advisory indicates that children and adolescents who spend more than three hours a day on social media are at double the risk of experiencing mental health problems, including symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Social Isolation: Despite being connected online, many young people report feeling isolated.

Online interactions may not provide the same emotional rewards as face-to-face connections, leading to feelings of loneliness.

Body Image Concerns: A significant percentage of adolescents report that social media negatively impacts their body image, contributing to low self-esteem and dissatisfaction with their appearance.

A recent study found that adolescents with mental health conditions use social media differently, often spending more time on these platforms and experiencing greater dissatisfaction with their online interactions.

This suggests that mental health status can influence social media use patterns, creating a complex relationship between the two.

Monitor Usage: Parents should be aware of how much time their children spend on social media and encourage healthy usage habits.

Setting limits on screen time can help mitigate potential negative effects.

Open Communication: Encourage open discussions about social media experiences and mental health. This can help children feel supported and understood, making it easier for them to share their feelings and concerns.

While social media can offer valuable connections and support for children, it is essential to be mindful of its potential risks to mental health.

Balancing online interactions with real-life connections and promoting healthy usage can help mitigate these risks.

“The mental health crisis among young people is an emergency—and social media has emerged as an important contributor.”—Dr. Vivek Murthy, U.S. surgeon general, New York Times, June 17, 2024.

How can parents protect their children from the dangers of social media? The Bible offers practical advice.

Consider these Bible principles.

“The shrewd one ponders each step.”—Proverbs 14:15.

In view of the risks involved, do not feel pressured to let your child use social media. Before allowing your child to use social media, make sure that he or she is mature enough to stick to time limits, maintain healthy friendships, and avoid inappropriate content.

“[Make] the best use of your time.”—Ephesians 5:16.

If you allow your child to use social media, establish rules on its use, and explain how these will help to keep him or her safe.

Be alert to any changes in your child’s behavior that could indicate the need to limit his or her access to social media.

The Bible says we are living in “critical times hard to deal with.” (2 Timothy 3:1-5) At the same time .

In the last two decades, social media has transformed from a niche experiment in digital communication into a global force shaping nearly every aspect of our lives.

Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, X (formerly Twitter), and countless others have rewired the way humans interact, share information, and perceive themselves.

For billions of people across the globe, social media is the first thing they check in the morning and the last thing they glance at before sleep.

Get involved. As parents, consider the risks and decide if your child should use social media or not.

Bible principle: “Train a child in the way he should go.”—Proverbs 22:6.

Bible principle: “Keep strict watch that how you walk is . . . as wise persons, making the best use of your time.”—Ephesians 5:15, 16.

If you do allow your child to use social media, be alert to the potential dangers and stay involved in your child’s online activities. How?

Protect your child from harmful content. Train your child to identify and avoid harmful content.