In an ambitious move aimed at safeguarding the mental health of young people, Mumsnet has unveiled a striking campaign advocating for a complete ban on social media for those under the age of 16. This initiative, part of their broader Rage Against the Screen campaign, features powerful advertisements reminiscent of health warnings on cigarette packaging, highlighting the alarming risks associated with social media usage among adolescents.
The Campaign’s Eye-Catching Messaging
The campaign’s advertisements are designed to grab attention, featuring stark claims about the consequences of excessive social media use. Among their messages, the ads assert that spending three or more hours daily on social media significantly increases the likelihood of self-harm among teenagers. Additionally, they warn that phone addiction can double the risk of anxiety, contribute to eating disorders, and is linked to a higher probability of suicidal behaviour.
Mumsnet’s founder, Justine Roberts, emphasised the urgent need for action. “Families are witnessing the damage caused by social media firsthand. This isn’t about parents failing to set boundaries; it’s about children being exposed to products that are intentionally addictive. The impacts are profound: compulsive usage, disrupted sleep, escalating anxiety, and plummeting self-esteem, all while companies continue to thrive,” she shared. Roberts argues that the solution is not simply better parenting but rather a systemic overhaul to protect children from these pervasive technologies.
Growing Concerns Among Parents
The Mumsnet campaign is rooted in a growing apprehension among parents regarding the effects of social media on their children’s mental well-being. A survey conducted in spring 2025 revealed that a staggering 92% of parents expressed concern about the impact of social media on youth mental health, with more than 60% believing their child is addicted to their devices.
Representing the youth perspective, Sedona Jamieson, a student who has faced mental health challenges, voiced her support for the campaign. At just 15, she found herself struggling with anxiety, depression, and an eating disorder. “When I turned to social media for support, I inadvertently stumbled into harmful communities that glorified destructive behaviours,” she recounted. “Our developing brains make us particularly vulnerable to online content, highlighting the need for robust safeguarding measures and responsible content moderation.”
Political Response and Future Considerations
In response to the mounting pressure surrounding youth social media usage, the Prime Minister has committed to implementing measures that could restrict under-16s’ access to social media within months. However, it remains uncertain whether this will culminate in a total ban. Dame Rachel de Souza, the Children’s Commissioner for England, has refrained from commenting directly on the campaign but has underscored the necessity for safety measures while cautioning against simply driving children towards more dangerous corners of the internet.
A government spokesperson reiterated their dedication to addressing parental concerns, stating, “We’re committed to ensuring that young people can enjoy their childhood while being prepared for the future.” Plans for consultations on age limits and social media regulations are expected to be revealed this summer.
The Call for Greater Regulation
The Royal College of Psychiatrists has echoed the sentiment for urgent action, asserting that protecting children’s mental health should be a public health priority. They caution that unrestricted access to social media can lead to lasting harm, increasing the risk of mental health issues. The College advocates for stricter regulation of social media platforms, insisting that they must be more transparent with their data to better understand the connection between online behaviours and mental health.
Parents also play a crucial role in this equation, encouraged to engage in open dialogues with their children about safe online practices while balancing screen time with fulfilling offline activities like socialising and exercising.
Why it Matters
The implications of Mumsnet’s campaign extend far beyond a mere call for action; they represent a growing recognition of the need to prioritise young people’s mental health in the digital age. As social media continues to shape the lives of adolescents, understanding its impact and advocating for protective measures is vital. This campaign not only raises awareness but also galvanises parents, policymakers, and the public to confront the powerful influence of technology on youth wellbeing, signalling a critical step towards fostering a healthier environment for future generations.
