Protecting children and young people’s mental health from excessive screentime, addictive algorithms, harmful content and behaviour is a shared responsibility: we’re all #InThisTogether.
The influence of social media use on adolescent mental health has become a topic of significant concern. While being online has benefits for connecting, learning and engaging with others, too much, unintentional screen time can harm our mental and physical health. This is particularly relevant for young people who can spend hours online during a time of important cognitive and personality development. According to a 2025 survey, more than 9 in 10 Europeans agree that we need urgent action to increase the protection of children against the negative impact of social media on their mental health.
The EU is working hard to make sure that online spaces are safe places for children to play, learn and communicate including through a series of initiatives and legal tools. This includes the Digital Services Act, which requires online platforms to ensure their services are safe for the physical and mental wellbeing of their users, including children. At the same time, digital skills and literacy can also help empower young people to enjoy a healthier, more mindful digital experience.
To mark the European Mental Health Week (4-8 May 2026), the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Health and Food Safety is raising awareness of the need for joint efforts to reduce the negative impacts of excessive and passive screentime. This includes encouraging parents, caregivers and educators to have open discussions on topics including being intentional online, algorithms and features that may influence their behaviour and healthy digital habits that can enhance health and wellbeing.
Get involved to help promote a healthier, more mindful digital experience
- Visit the web hub for inspiration on how to Control your device: engage and connect safely
- Print and display the #InThisTogether posters that encourage young people to check in with their emotions, set boundaries online and prioritise healthy habits.
- Spread the word using the campaign guidelines and toolkit, including suggested messaging, editable campaign materials and useful data.
- Join the conversation online by using the hashtag #InThisTogether and tagging us on Instagram and LinkedIn
Background information
The EU adopted a comprehensive approach to mental health in 2023 – with financing opportunities worth around EUR 1.3 billion – to help EU countries deal with common challenges, including the mental health of children and young people. In addition, and to address increasing concerns worldwide, the European Commission is conducting an EU-wide inquiry on the broader impacts of social media and related excessive screentime on wellbeing and mental health, especially of children and young people.
