​As we reach Mental Health Awareness Month, it is the perfect time to reflect on the impact of social media on young people. In recent years, social media has become an integral part of children's lives, shaping how they communicate, learn, and interact. However, for parents, teachers, and policymakers, an important question arises: is social media helping or harming children's mental health, and should it be allowed in schools?

At Aspire People, we recently conducted a poll to better understand perspectives on social media in the classroom. The results showed a clear trend - 90% of respondents believe social media should be banned in schools, while just 10% see potential benefits in its use.

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The Case for Social Media in Schools

Social media is not inherently negative, teachers have highlight several benefits such as:

Enhancing communication and collaboration : Platforms can support group projects, peer to peer learning, and positive communication between students and teachers.

Digital literacy : Early, supervised exposure can help children develop responsible online behaviours, preparing them for a world where social media is a key part of everyday life.

Support networks : For some students, online communities provide emotional support and a sense of belonging, particularly for those who feel isolated offline.

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The Case Against Social Media in Schools.

Social media has also been linked to serious mental health concerns:

Anxiety and depression : Studies have linked prolonged social media use with increased anxiety, low self esteem, and depression among children and teenagers.

Cyberbullying : Exposure to online harassment can worsen mental health struggles, and schools may find it difficult to monitor and manage these risks effectively. When issues arise between students on platforms such as Snapchat or Instagram, they often carry over into the school environment. This can create uncomfortable and stressful situations, making it harder for students to focus on learning. Tackling these challenges is essential, and restricting social media in schools may be one step in addressing them.

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Is There a Right Answer?

There is no clear answer to this debate. Some UK schools have implemented full bans during school hours, while others focus on guided integration, teaching students how to use social media responsibly.

The challenges associated with social media are unlikely to disappear. While banning it may help reduce cyberbullying, protect mental health, and limit distractions, simply ignoring students’ existing online presence is not always effective , they will continue to use these platforms outside of school. This raises an important question: should more emphasis be placed on educating students about responsible social media use instead?

Many teachers are now advocating for a structured and supervised approach rather than a complete ban. This could include:

• Implementing digital citizenship programmes that teach safe and responsible online behaviour

• Limiting social media access to educational purposes and designated times

• Providing easily accessible mental health support and resources for students struggling with online pressures

Final Thoughts

Social media is neither wholly harmful nor wholly beneficial - it reflects how it is used, guided, and understood. For schools, the challenge is not simply whether to allow or ban it, but how to respond to a reality that extends far beyond the classroom walls.

As Mental Health Awareness Month reminds us, supporting young people’s wellbeing must remain at the heart of every decision. That means balancing protection with preparation: safeguarding students from harm while equipping them with the skills to navigate digital spaces confidently and responsibly.

Rather than a one-size-fits-all solution, the path forward lies in collaboration—between educators, parents, and policymakers—to create thoughtful, adaptable approaches that prioritise both learning and mental health. Because ultimately, the goal is not just to limit risk, but to empower the next generation to thrive in a connected world.