Follow the conference on X Adolescence
“The psychological toll social media has on young people is undeniable, and the rise of toxic content can be damaging to their self-worth.”
Professor Sonia Livingstone, Professor of Social Psychology, London School of Economics
“The lines between authentic self-expression and performance are increasingly blurred, and it’s essential to help young people distinguish between the two.”
Dr. Sarah Houghton, Senior Researcher in Social Media and Adolescence
“Social media algorithms push young people towards content that reinforces existing biases, which can lead them down dangerous paths.”
Dr. Matthew Williams, Expert in Digital Literacy and Online Behaviour
“Parents are struggling to keep up with the digital world their children live in, and it’s crucial we bridge this gap by providing them with tools to understand and manage these online influences.”
Dr. Lucy Russell, Senior Clinical Psychologist and Parent Support Advocate
The rise of social media has dramatically altered the way young people experience the world. From toxic content that can be accessed in seconds to the pressure of influencer culture, adolescents are navigating an increasingly complex digital landscape. This conference brings together healthcare professionals, educators, and policymakers to explore the effects of social media on young minds and how we can support youth in a hyper-connected world.
Following recent concerns around online safety and mental health, the focus on addressing the risks posed by social media is becoming urgent. Attendees will learn how harmful content spreads among young people and practical strategies to support them through these challenges. The conference will examine topics such as body image, online radicalisation, addiction, and the parental disconnect in the digital age.
This event is designed for healthcare professionals, educators, mental health practitioners, and policymakers who are working to mitigate the negative impacts of social media on young people’s lives.
Who should attend?
Teachers, SENCOs, School Safeguarding Leads / DSLs, Youth Workers, School Nurses & Health Visitors, CAMHS Practitioners, GPs & Paediatricians, Social Workers, Educational Psychologists, or any other healthcare professionals, educators and mental health practitioners who are working to mitigate the negative impacts of social media on young people’s lives.
This conference will enable you to:
Understand the critical role social media plays in shaping adolescent mental health and identity.
Explore the impact of toxic content, influencer culture, and peer validation on young people's self-esteem and decision-making.
Gain insight into the dangers of online radicalisation, including how social media algorithms amplify harmful content.
Learn practical strategies for fostering digital literacy and critical thinking skills in students to navigate social media responsibly.
Develop an understanding of the long-term effects of social media addiction on mental health, sleep, and emotional regulation.
Examine methods for supporting parents and caregivers in understanding the digital world of their children and offering appropriate guidance.
Explore how to create a supportive, open environment where young people feel comfortable discussing their online experiences and challenges.
Understand the intersection of social media, body image, and unrealistic beauty standards, and strategies to build resilience against these pressures.
Learn how educators can identify warning signs of social media-related mental health issues and intervene effectively.
Examine how schools can work with mental health professionals to integrate social media awareness and wellbeing into the curriculum.
Explore effective methods for reducing online bullying and promoting safe online behaviour among young people.
Identify tools and resources that can support educators and healthcare professionals in addressing social media challenges with adolescents.
Examine case studies of successful interventions and strategies used to protect young people from the harmful effects of social media.
