

hile becoming inextricable to our daily lives, online social media are blamed for increasing mental health problems in younger people. This systematic review synthesised evidence on the influence of social media use on depression, anxiety and psychological distress in adolescents. A search of PsycINFO, Medline, Embase, CINAHL and SSCI databases reaped 13 eligible studies, of which 12 were cross-sectional. Findings were classified into four domains of social media: time spent, activity, investment and addiction. All domains correlated with depression, anxiety and psychological distress. However, there are considerable caveats due to methodological limitations of cross-sectional design, sampling and measures. Mechanisms of the putative effects of social media on mental health should be explored further through qualitative enquiry and longitudinal cohort studies.

Psychologist Adam Alter provides insight into why we have addiction to technology, explains the science behind why we can't seem to stop such behaviour and offers practical advice for using technology differently, in order to lead a happier life, and to set yourself free.
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Clinical psychologist and founder of the Australian Institute for Human Wellness Dr Anastasia Hronis lifts the lid on dopamine to help us live by intention, not impulse. A transformative guide to breaking free from impulsive habits and living a more intentional life.
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The suffering of people who are addicted to gaming and social media, the struggle of their families, and the need for screening, prevention, early intervention, and treatment are highlighted in this interview with Dr Daniela Vecchio on Reuters.
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