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A new study conducted by The University of Manchester has highlighted a significant connection between social media use, unhealthy lifestyle choices, and mental well-being in teenagers. The research, part of the #BeeWell program, analyzed the habits of nearly 18,500 Year 8 students across Greater Manchester, showing that those with healthier lifestyles reported higher levels of well-being.
The study, led by Dr. Chris Knowles and a team from the Manchester Institute of Education, aimed to explore the relationship between various health habits—including physical activity, sleep, and diet—and the mental well-being of young people. It categorized participants into three distinct groups based on these habits: the “Green and Dream Team” (those with the healthiest behaviors), the “Balanced Bunch” (with moderate scores on health factors), and the “Wellness Weary” (with the least healthy habits).
Key findings revealed that approximately 45% of teenagers fell into the “Green and Dream Team” category, 40% into the “Balanced Bunch,” and 15% into the “Wellness Weary.” The healthiest group, the “Green and Dream Team,” reported the highest levels of mental well-being one year later.
A critical factor influencing these groups was social media use. Teenagers who spent more time on social media were more likely to exhibit less healthy habits, such as reduced physical activity, poor sleep, and lower intake of fruits and vegetables. In contrast, those who used social media less often demonstrated healthier behaviors and higher well-being.
The study also underscored the role of socio-economic deprivation in shaping health behaviors. Adolescents from disadvantaged areas were less likely to be part of the “Green and Dream Team,” with deprivation emerging as the strongest predictor of unhealthy habits. This finding highlights the need for policies aimed at reducing public health disparities.
Interestingly, the research found that Black and Asian teenagers were more likely to have poorer health habits, such as reduced physical activity and sleep, despite often reporting better mental health outcomes than their white peers. This points to the complexity of how social and lifestyle factors interact to affect health across different ethnic groups.
Dr. Chris Knowles emphasized the importance of tackling social inequality and the potential benefits of reducing social media use. “There is a long-term need to address deep societal issues, such as inequality, which we’ve shown has strong links to unhealthy behavior. Reducing social media use is a more immediately implementable change that could promote healthier lifestyles in the short term.”
Professor Neil Humphrey, lead of the #BeeWell program, added, “It’s crucial that as a country we consistently measure the well-being of our young people. Armed with these insights, schools, government, and health systems can act on the results to create real change.”
The study supports ongoing efforts by the NHS and government to improve the physical and mental health of young people, calling for further action to address the impact of social media and social inequalities.
For more information, the full report is available at: #BeeWell Report.
