NYC’s Leading Doctor Warns Against Kids Having Phones Before Age 14 for Better Mental Health..

NYC’s top doctor recommends that kids shouldn’t get phones before age 14 to safeguard mental health. This advice comes amid rising concerns about social media’s impact on young people’s well-being. On September 5, Health Commissioner Ashwin Vasan highlighted the risks associated with smartphone use among children.

Vasan, along with other health officials, emphasized the need for parents to delay giving smartphones to their children. They suggest that pediatricians should discuss social media’s dangers during check-ups.

Key takeaways:

• Children should wait until age 14 for smartphones.
• Social media use is linked to mental health issues.
• Pediatricians should discuss social media risks with families.
• Governor Hochul supports smartphone bans in schools.

Fast Answer: NYC health officials recommend delaying smartphone access for children until age 14 to protect their mental health. This decision is driven by rising anxiety and depression rates linked to social media use among youths.

Why NYC Health Officials Recommend Delaying Smartphone Access for Children

Health Commissioner Ashwin Vasan advises parents to hold off on giving their children smartphones until they are at least 14 years old. This recommendation is based on alarming statistics showing increased rates of anxiety and depression among young people. A recent survey revealed that 38% of high school students felt sad or hopeless, a significant rise from previous years. The health department believes that social media addiction may be a contributing factor to these mental health issues.

Warning! Parents should be cautious about giving smartphones to children. The rise in mental health issues among youths is alarming and linked to social media use.

Understanding the Impact of Social Media on Youth Mental Health

Social media can have serious effects on young people’s mental health. Studies show that children who use social media experience higher rates of anxiety and depression compared to those who do not. For instance, 16% of children using social media reported anxiety, compared to 12% of non-users. Teenagers face even higher rates, with 27% experiencing anxiety and 14% suffering from depression.

Steps for Parents to Manage Smartphone Use Among Kids

To mitigate the risks associated with smartphone use, parents can take several proactive steps:

• Delay smartphone access until age 14.
• Start with basic phones without internet access.
• Discuss social media’s risks during family check-ups.
• Create a family media plan to limit usage.

In conclusion, the NYC health department’s recommendations aim to protect children’s mental health by encouraging parents to reconsider smartphone access. By delaying access and fostering open discussions about social media, families can help mitigate potential harm.