The Riigikogu majority has mandated the government to tackle the mental health crisis among children attributed to excessive internet and social media use.
A member of the SDE faction, Madis Kallas, addressed the Riigikogu, highlighting research that shows a clear correlation between excessive screen time and intense social media usage with increasing mental health issues among children and young people. These issues include heightened risks for anxiety, depression, social phobia, and low self-esteem. Furthermore, studies reveal that passive screen time exceeding four hours a day is linked to an increase in symptoms of depression and anxiety, alongside a decline in social skills.
Experts and researchers emphasize that negative experiences on social media, including comparisons and adverse interactions, can lead to decreased self-worth and heightened feelings of loneliness. Kallas remarked that children's psychological well-being appears to depend not only on the amount of screen time but also on the content and context of that usage. This insight highlights the need for a multifaceted approach to address the challenges posed by digital engagement among the youth.
The announcement from the Riigikogu reflects a growing recognition of the adverse effects of digital overexposure on the mental health of younger generations, prompting a call for immediate government action. This intervention seeks to promote better mental wellness strategies and guidelines regarding the use of social media and screen time among children, as the combination of health and digital policy becomes increasingly relevant in contemporary society.
