DEON Tullett-Prado, a provisional psychologist at Gateway Health's psychology clinic, is a PhD student at Victoria University, working with the cyberpsychology group investigating problematic digital media use such as video game and social media addiction.
He offered the following advice to families regarding young people's social media use:
"Social media is one channel for social connections, which is important in contributing to a positive mental state, especially for those who are socially anxious, those who feel alone or those who feel isolated.
"However, it is important to remember social media is a facsimile of real social connection and it is addictive.
"The older you are when exposed to an addictive substance, the less likely you are to get addicted.
"For anyone concerned about their child's use of social media, we recommend they be proactive.
"Use parental controls, limit screentime and the places to use them, and don't give them a smartphone.
"To promote positive outcomes, it is important to promote positive things, so encourage real replacements like playing games as a family, cooking together, engaging in sport."
