Adolescents who experience cyberbullying are at increased risk for a wide range of mental and physical health problems like depression and anxiety. This is according to a 2017 study by American Academy of Pediatrics. If not treated, poor mental health can lead to suicide.
The organisation analysed a number of studies on the relationship between social media and teen mental health.
As South Africa shines the spotlight on mental health with Teen Suicide Prevention Week from February 16-23, young people face more threats from social media usage. Through social media platforms, teenagers are at risk of cyberbullying.
In the video below, a teenager diagnosed with depression and anxiety speaks about her experience with mental health:
The study also found that general internet use and being a victim of cyberbullying are both associated with more suicidal thoughts and self-injurious behaviours.
South African teenagers are active users of social media and are also at risk of cyberbullying.
A survey by the American Academy of Pediatrics showed that over 40% of teenagers aged between 13 and 18 years had experienced some form of cyberbullying.
The infographic below includes some signs that your child may be a victim of cyberbullying:
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In the video below, Dr Sindi van Zyl says the stigma of depression and mental health needs to be broken:
-Edited by: Sesona Mahlahla
