social media
Social media has become an integral part of our daily lives. Its constant presence may have an impact on our mental health and wellbeing. On one hand, social media provides a platform to connect with others, share interests and express ourselves creatively. On the other, it may also negatively impact our mental health and wellbeing, leading to experiences of stress, low mood, difficulties sleeping or insecurity.
We have helpful resources for young people navigating challenges that might come from social media use and information on supporting young people with their social media use for family, health professionals and educators.
Healthier social media use
- How to have a healthier relationship with social media
- Balancing screen time fact sheet
- Group chat transcripts for young people or for their family and friends
- Tips for reducing screen time video
- Resources for educators
Staying safer online
- What is trolling and how should you respond to it?
- Information on sexting and image-based abuse - for young people and their family and friends
- Understanding bullying and cyberbullying - for young people and their family and friends
Other resources
How to get support
If you're having a tough time, it’s important that you reach out to a trusted friend, family member, teacher or Elder to share what you are going through. Or you can get in touch with your local headspace centre or use our online or phone-based service at eheadspace.
For immediate help contact: triple zero (000) if it is an emergency
National 24/7 crisis services:
- Lifeline: 13 11 14 or lifeline.org.au
- Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467 or suicidecallbackservice.org.au
- Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636 or beyondblue.org.au
Additional youth support services include:
- Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800 kidshelpline.com.au
- ReachOut: reachout.com
- SANE Australia: 1800 187 263 sane.org