In this episode, Developmental Psychologist and screen addiction researcher, Prof Wayne Warburton speaks with host Dr Rebecca Overton on what current evidence says about social media, mental health and young people. They unpack mechanisms of harm, discuss Australia’s under‑16 social media ban and offer practical tips for GPs on recognising problematic use and supporting healthier digital habits:

• Explore the scientific evidence about social media and youth mental health
• Understand the specific mechanisms of harm
• Recognise problematic or addictive patterns of social media use
• Gain practical, evidence-informed strategies GPs can use in consults
• Support families with age-based restrictions and to better understand the benefits versus harms of social media

Expert: Prof Wayne Warburton, Registered Psychologist and Professor of Developmental Psychology

Host: Dr Rebecca Overton, GP and Medical Educator

Total time: 32 mins

Recommended resources

• Problematic online behaviors and psychopathology in Australia | Psychiatry Res
• New study challenges social media’s mental health impact | Curtin University
• Social media | Jonathan Haidt
• Social media and youth mental health | Children’s Health Council
• Social media age restrictions | Australian eSafety Commissioner