New Data on Teen Self-Harm: How Social Media & Exercise Shape Mental Health

Introduction

Teen mental health is in crisis. With self-harm and suicide rates climbing, researchers are uncovering alarming connections between social media usage, self-harm, and mental health struggles. At the same time, science continues to support exercise as a powerful tool to combat depression and anxiety in teens. This blog explores the latest data on how social media contributes to self-harm and suicide, while also highlighting how physical activity can be a life-changing intervention.

The Alarming Rise of Teen Self-Harm and Suicide

Self-harm, often linked to mental health disorders, is on the rise among adolescents. Research shows that 55% of people who self-harm have eating disorders, while 11% have mood disorders like anxiety and depression (The Recovery Village).

In a study of young teens aged 12-16, more than 25% reported thoughts of self-harm, and 15% admitted to at least one act of self-harm (BMC Psychiatry). Teenage girls are especially vulnerable, with self-harm rates nearly twice as high as boys (23.8% vs. 11.3%) (Bright Path Behavioral Health).

Perhaps most concerning, emergency room visits for self-harm have skyrocketed over the past decade. Young girls are five times more likely to be admitted for self-harm than in 2009, and from 2020 to 2022, self-harm-related ER visits rose nearly 30% for teenage girls (Bright Path Behavioral Health).

The Social Media Effect: Is It Fueling the Crisis?

Social media usage has exploded among teens, with young adolescents averaging nearly five hours per day on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat. This constant online engagement is taking a toll: 41% of teens report poor overall mental health, and among those who use social media the most and have poor parental relationships, 22% report experiencing suicidal thoughts or self-harm urges (APA).

The long-term impact is becoming clear: In the past 20 years, suicide rates in females aged 15-24 have surged by 87%, while male suicide rates have increased by 30% (University of Utah Health).

Social media can expose teens to cyberbullying, unrealistic body standards, and addictive dopamine-driven scrolling—factors that contribute to anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts.

Exercise: A Powerful Antidote to Teen Depression

While social media has been linked to rising mental health struggles, exercise is emerging as one of the most effective ways to combat depression in teens. Studies show that teenagers who exercised regularly experienced a 63% reduction in depression (Mindwise).

Additionally, research suggests that exercise is 1.5 times more effective at treating mild to moderate mental health issues in adolescents than medication or cognitive behavioral therapy (ALISBH). For those with major depressive disorder, exercise reduced symptoms by nearly 86% (Evolve Treatment Centers).

Encouraging Positive Change

With social media’s mental health risks becoming more apparent, it’s crucial for parents, educators, and teens to take proactive steps. Encouraging movement, limiting screen time, and promoting open conversations about mental health can help counteract the negative effects of social media.

At Riseabove, we believe in the power of movement and motivation to overcome life’s biggest struggles. Our motivational clothing, including motivational shirts and motivational hoodies, serves as a symbol of resilience for those battling mental health challenges.

Conclusion

Teen mental health is at a crossroads. While social media’s impact on self-harm and suicide is troubling, the proven benefits of exercise provide hope. By raising awareness, promoting fitness, and advocating for healthier social media habits, we can help teens build a brighter, stronger future.

Would you like to see more data on this topic? Let us know in the comments!