Why social media could be dangerous? Suicide risk and mental health challenges in adolescents during COVID-19 pandemic. A narrative review of the literature

Background: Suicide is the second leading cause of death in children and adolescents between the ages of 10 and 19. The reason for high suicide rates among young people are complex, including exposure to harmful content online. Misuse of social media and the spread of online challenges have contributed to the increased suicide risk in adolescence. The aim of this review is to explore the relationship between the phenomenon of online challenges and suicide risk in adolescents. Method: We examined review and original studies in the last fifteen years, concerning “social media”, “challenges online”, “suicide risk in adolescents” and “Covid-19”. Articles were read in full when titles and abstracts were consistent with the objective of our study. Result: In conclusion, social media and the age of access to the Internet have changed over time. Young people are increasingly exposed to the potential perils of the Internet, moreover, the Covid-19 pandemic has led to an extreme level of social network use possibly contributing to the increased suicide risk and rates. Conclusion: Direct or indirect access to dangerous content represent a risk factor for vulnerable populations, however, social media can also be used as a protective measure, by increasing awareness and promoting digital education on digital platforms themselves.