More than half of teens and young adults use apps for mental health information and support, according to a recent Common Sense report, as reported in Education Week.
The report found almost two-thirds (65 percent) of teens and young adults have searched online for any behavioral health topics; more than half (54 percent) say they have used apps to support their mental health and well-being; and more than a quarter (26 percent) say they have attended online therapy.
For those who search online for mental health information, most (53 percent) say they turn to medical websites. Social media sites are another important source of information.
For instance, 38 percent said they’ve searched YouTube for information related to behavioral health, 34 percent have searched TikTok, and 23 percent have searched Instagram. A smaller percentage (6 percent) have used generative artificial intelligence tools.
But most young people do not take what they find at face value, according to the report. They compare information across multiple sources and run information by their friends and family.
“I do think we see that young people are, in some ways, a lot more thoughtful about this than they get credit for from adults,” says Amanda Lenhart, the head of research for Common Sense.
Many young people also turn to apps to support their well-being, the report found. They said they’ve downloaded apps for meditation, mindfulness, tracking habits and sleep, and journaling.
Why go online for help? Young people might not want to go through the logistics of seeking professional mental health support; they are more comfortable using technology to get information and communicate with other people; and a phone app is accessible all the time.
Here’s what experts say schools can do to support youth using online mental health aids:
• The report should be a “wake-up call” for adults that young people need more accessible mental health support. Schools should be safe and secure to reach out for support.
• Schools can provide a list of vetted apps and websites that students and families can use to support their well-being. They can also help families navigate through the apps and remind them that school-based health professionals can help them process their experiences with the apps.
• Schools could teach students skills needed to determine what’s a good source of mental health information and what makes a good mental health app.
• Schools must involve young people in identifying other supports they can provide to students.
• Adults do not share the heavy use of online mental health assistance. By giving kids a platform, it allows better relationships, creating a school culture around mental health.
Education Week / Government Technology
