Screen use is impacting child and youth mental health: time for action now

The federal government must bring Canada into alignment with emerging best practice. A clear and overdue first step would be to pass comprehensive digital safety legislation that establishes an independent regulator mandated with enforcement powers to protect the best interests of children and youth.

In 2023, the U.S. Surgeon General issued an advisory that warned about the risks associated with excessive and problematic social media use, and the design features of platforms that strategically maximize user engagement, write Michelle Ponti and Stacey Bélanger. Image courtesy of Pixabay

Opinion

BY MICHELLE PONTI, STACEY BéLANGER

October 2, 2025

Screens can be found in most places where children and youth live, learn, and play. When kids use digital media often and for long periods of time, their health and development can be affected, especially their mental health.

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