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Digital applications like TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and online gaming pose a greater threat to teenagers than alcohol and cannabis consumption, according to a new German study. The research highlights the increasing number of adolescents developing addictive and harmful behaviors related to digital media.

Dr. Rainer Thomasius, Medical Director at the German Center for Addiction in Childhood and Adolescence at Hamburg-Eppendorf University Medical Center, which conducted the study in collaboration with DAK Health Insurance, warned:
"We are facing a tsunami of addiction disorders among young people, which I believe we are completely underestimating."

Key Findings:

Over a quarter of adolescents aged 10 to 17 exhibit problematic or excessive use of social media.

4.7% are considered social media addicts according to expert criteria.

The risk of problematic social media use is estimated to be 5 to 50 times higher than dangerous levels of cannabis or alcohol use among this age group.


While social media use, unlike alcohol or cannabis, does not directly impact the central nervous system, it triggers the brain’s reward system in a similar way. Addiction risk arises when users seek more engagement and lose control over their behavior.

The Consequences:

Excessive time spent on social media leads to neglect of other aspects of life, which can result in:

Declining academic performance, sometimes leading to failure.

Social isolation and loss of interest in hobbies.

Family conflicts over excessive screen time.


Who Is Most Affected?

Boys are more vulnerable, with 6% meeting the criteria for social media addiction, compared to 3.2% of girls.

Dr. Thomasius explains that girls tend to develop better social skills during adolescence, making them less likely to isolate themselves in digital spaces compared to boys.


Early Warning Signs and Parental Role:

Distinguishing between problematic and addictive social media use isn't always clear. Early signs include:

Declining school performance.

Loss of interest in education or social activities.


However, these symptoms could also be linked to normal adolescent struggles or peer pressure-related stress.

When Does Social Media Use Become an Addiction?

The study classifies social media addiction as a condition when symptoms persist for at least 12 months. This long-term criterion was chosen to prevent premature diagnoses and to differentiate between temporary teenage crises and real addiction.

Advice for Parents:

Dr. Thomasius urges parents to act early if their child shows signs of excessive social media use. He emphasizes the importance of:

Maintaining a strong parent-child relationship.

Setting clear limits on screen time and content.

Taking an active interest in their child's online activities.

Providing guidance and acting as both mentors and supervisors.


Parental involvement is key to preventing digital addiction before it takes hold.