Social Media Pressure Fuels Youth Mental‑Health Concerns

Psychiatrist Juan Carlos Pascual Mateos warned that social‑media‑driven FOMO (fear of missing out) amplifies emotional distress among vulnerable young people, causing insomnia, sadness and, in extreme cases, heightened suicidal risk. He recommended limiting screen time and introducing digital‑education programmes to mitigate these effects.

A study of 848 Argentine adolescents (ages 11‑17) found that one‑quarter had taken part in at least one viral challenge, with 14 % completing one or two challenges and smaller groups doing more. Participation correlated with problematic internet use, especially on Instagram, and stemmed from the pressure to belong to peer groups. Experts stressed the need for ongoing, non‑judgmental dialogue between adults and teens to prevent risky online behaviours.