The Scottish Government has announced that new guidance, specific to Scotland, will be produced on the healthy use of social media and screen time for young people, Minister for Mental Health Clare Haughey said:
“Social media has become a part of everyday life, and it’s difficult to imagine our day-to-day routines without it. It can be used in a hugely positive way, to empower and to connect people, particularly young people.
“However, what is important is ensuring that we all know what the healthy use of social media and screens looks like. Consequently, I welcome the joint guidance for parents published today from the Chief Medical Officers, including Scotland’s own Chief Medical Officer Dr Catherine Calderwood.
“We recognise there are general links between unhealthy use of social media and lower mental wellbeing in children and young people. We know this because young people themselves have told us.
“I’m also pleased to announce, during Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week, that the Scottish Government will be producing new guidance, specific to Scotland, on the healthy use of social media and screen time for young people. We want it to be world-leading, and for it to matter to young people.
“This work will be produced with, and for, young people. They will be at its very heart. The guidance will look at positive, healthy ways in which young people can use social media to maintain their own good mental health, as well as focusing on things to avoid. It will also cover interests across the Scottish Government including Education, Child Protection and Digital Participation, as well as many others.”