# AI impact on youth digital safety and mental health > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/ai-impact-on-youth-digital-safety-and-mental-health > Updated: 2026-09-23T16:01:28.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2. Recent media and internet conferences in Europe have focused on the intersection of artificial intelligence, youth development, and mental health. In Hungary, the 16th Media and Internet Conference addressed the creation of child-friendly digital environments. Experts discussed the risks of ‘synthetic relationships’ formed with chatbots, noting that while AI is highly accessible, it may lack the empathy and conflict-resolution skills found in human interaction. Psychologists at the event highlighted concerns regarding children using AI to satisfy emotional or social needs. Following this, the Media Scouts and Prevention Day in Germany and Austria explored AI’s role as a ‘third voice’ in social and psychological contexts. The event utilized theater and research to examine how AI influences communication and trust among young people. Discussions emphasized the necessity of media literacy to ensure that AI serves as a tool rather than a substitute for genuine human connection. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-23: Media Scouts Day explores AI's impact on youth and mental health The 2026 Media Scouts and Prevention Day explored the impact of artificial intelligence on youth, focusing on media literacy, mental health, and the risks of AI replacing human social interaction. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/media-scouts-day-explores-ais-impact-on-youth-and-mental-health ### 2026-09-15: Media and Internet Conference addresses child digital safety The 16th Media and Internet Conference in Hungary addressed child digital safety, focusing on the emotional impacts of AI, social media, and the importance of protecting children's digital rights. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/media-and-internet-conference-addresses-child-digital-safety --- Cite as: AI impact on youth digital safety and mental health. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/ai-impact-on-youth-digital-safety-and-mental-health