How is social media impacting mental wellbeing in young people and what can you do to spot the signs and provide support? Read on...
However, you can help teens redefine what success means, manage comparisons, and focus on what truly brings joy. Taking a few practical steps can help you better support young people as they navigate the social media world.
True success isn’t about chasing perfection or meeting the unrealistic standards set by others—or by social media. It’s deeply personal, rooted in setting goals that align with who you are and finding fulfillment in progress, growth, and the journey itself. Helping teens embrace this idea can empower them to focus on their own path rather than constantly measuring themselves against others.
Social media has its perks—keeping us connected and sparking creativity—but it can also lead to harmful comparisons. While nearly half of teens say they value the connections social media helps them maintain, many also report feeling left out or overwhelmed by the constant online drama, according to a Pew Research survey.
Understanding the dual role social media plays in teens’ lives—as a space for connection and creativity but also a source of pressure and self-doubt—is key. By acknowledging the positives and challenges of social media, you can help teens navigate these spaces with greater confidence and self-awareness.
The pressure to look perfect can be amplified by endless curated feeds. Teens may internalize unrealistic ideals of success, leading to low self-esteem and even fear of failure. Starting conversations about how curated feeds show only the best moments—and not reality—can shift their perspective. Helping teens see that these images reflect small, filtered slices of life can reduce pressure to measure up.
Think of social media as watching a highlight reel without seeing the full story—it may look impressive, but it doesn’t give the complete picture. Encouraging teens to engage with social media in ways that feel authentic and meaningful, such as seeking content that inspires joy, curiosity, or creativity, can shift their focus to what adds value to their lives rather than what fuels insecurity.
Comparison is a near-universal consequence of social media use. Seeing picture-perfect images all over social media can take a toll, especially on girls.
Studies show it’s linked to struggles with body image and even feelings of depression. One habit that can amplify these feelings is doomscrolling—the act of mindlessly scrolling through social media or news feeds, often focusing on negative or overwhelming content. This habit can leave teens feeling anxious or drained, especially if they’re consuming constant comparisons or negative stories.
Helping teens recognize when they’re doomscrolling and guiding them toward healthier online habits—like taking breaks or following uplifting, inspiring content—can make a meaningful difference for their mental well-being.
Teens may also wonder if people like them for who they are or for their follower count—a reminder of how easily social media can chip away at self-worth. Helping teens focus on qualities beyond online metrics can foster stronger self-esteem and confidence.
Here’s the good news: while social media can create pressure to compare, it’s possible to reframe those feelings and build resilience. You can help teens learn to bounce back from challenges and embrace growth by framing setbacks as opportunities to learn. Experts emphasize that resilience isn’t something you’re born with—it’s a skill that can be developed.
Athletes like Chloe Kim, Simone Biles, and Stephen Curry show us that setbacks aren’t the end—they’re steppingstones to success. Their journeys remind us that roadblocks are part of life and overcoming them is an essential skill.
Simone Biles, widely regarded as the greatest gymnast of all time, made waves when she prioritized her mental health at the Tokyo Olympics by stepping back from events. She later shared how this decision was a moment of self-care and growth: “I learned that it’s okay to not be okay—and to step away when you need to.” Her courage in openly addressing mental health challenges has redefined what strength looks like in sports and beyond.
Chloe Kim, who faced immense pressure after being labeled a prodigy at just 13, says early attention shaped her mental health and understanding of success. At first, success for her was all about external validation—winning competitions and meeting others’ expectations. However, after achieving her second Olympic gold medal, she realized those victories didn’t bring the same fulfillment they once had. This led her to rethink what success truly meant. Today, Chloe describes success as “allowing myself to be proud of everything I’ve accomplished and also be proud of the person I am today.”
Biles and Kim have shown that stepping back to protect their mental health is an act of immense bravery that redefines strength—not as pushing through at all costs, but as knowing when to prioritize self-care. Their stories remind us that success doesn’t have to mean perfection and that adults can support teens by encouraging them to take breaks, seek help, and embrace self-compassion when the pressure feels overwhelming.
Stephen Curry’s resilience also shines through. Rejected by major college basketball programs for being “too small,” Curry turned those hurdles into motivation. After one of the worst shooting nights of his career, Curry returned to the court the next game to set an NBA record for 13 three-pointers.
Curry’s story, like those of Chloe Kim and Simone Biles, highlights an important truth: setbacks are not the end—they are opportunities to grow. These examples of perseverance remind us that challenges, whether they come on the court, in competition, or through external pressures like social media, can be powerful moments for learning and progress.
Social media’s impact doesn’t stay online—it often shows up on the field, court, or in the gym. Teens may struggle to fully engage in practices, distracted by what’s happening on their screens, or bring a “win-at-all-costs” mindset influenced by highlight reels and comparisons. These pressures can harm their individual performance and disrupt team dynamics, making it harder to foster a supportive, growth-focused environment.
As coaches, teachers, or trusted adults, recognizing these challenges during practices or games is the first step. By addressing how social media shapes attitudes and behaviors, you have an opportunity to create positive, meaningful change. Whether it’s shifting focus from perfection to progress or helping teens unplug and connect in the moment, small adjustments can encourage healthier habits and build stronger teams. Here are some practical strategies to help teens thrive:
To thrive in the social media age, it’s about helping teens discover strategies that feel empowering and meaningful. Here are some realistic and actionable ways you, as a coach or trusted adult, can offer support:
Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection: Focus on individual growth and effort rather than external achievements. After practices or games, highlight how athletes improved or demonstrated teamwork, rather than just wins or stats.
Create a “Social Media-Free” Zone in Practice: Encourage your team to leave their phones behind during practice or team meetings. Emphasize the value of being present and connecting face-to-face, and frame it as a way to recharge from online pressures.
Introduce Healthy Competition: Reframe competition to emphasize personal improvement over comparison. For example, set team challenges like tracking personal bests in performance or celebrating acts of kindness within the group.
Recognize Non-Sports Wins: Take time to acknowledge when teens accomplish something outside the athletic field. Whether they ace a test, help a friend, or explore a new passion, showing interest in their whole selves reinforces that they’re valued beyond their athletic or online personas.
Model Balance and Boundaries: Share how you manage your own use of social media or balance it with real-life priorities. Teens often look up to coaches as role models, so demonstrating healthy habits can have a powerful impact.
Talk About Resilience: Use team setbacks as teachable moments. After a tough loss, discuss how even professional athletes face challenges, but it’s how they respond that matters. Share stories of resilience, like how athletes bounced back after failure, to show that setbacks are a natural part of growth.
Host a “Gratitude Huddle”: At the end of practice or a game, invite everyone to share one thing they’re proud of or grateful for from that day. It’s a quick, easy way to build positive reflection into routines.
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Disclaimer: This website offers general information and is not a substitute for professional advice. We are not clinicians or trained professionals; this information should not replace seeking help from a qualified healthcare provider. Please consult a healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
