The “problematic” use of social networking sites is increasing among young Europeans, who are also at risk of developing addictions to online gaming, the World Health Organization warned today.

In 2022, 11% of adolescents (13% of girls and 9% of boys) showed signs of “problematic use” of social media, compared to 7% previously, according to data collected from 280,000 young people aged 11, 13, and 15 across 44 countries in Europe, Central Asia, and Canada. These adolescents exhibited symptoms similar to addiction: an inability to control excessive use, feelings of withdrawal, and neglect of other activities, all leading to negative consequences in their daily lives.

This phenomenon is particularly noticeable among Romanian adolescents aged 13-15, with 28% affected. On the opposite end, Dutch adolescents show only 3% affected.

Another concerning issue is that one-third of teenagers play online daily, with 22% playing for at least four hours, according to the WHO. Of these, 12% display “problematic behavior” related to gaming (16% of boys and 7% of girls).

“It’s crucial to take steps to protect young people so they can safely navigate the digital environment, making informed choices online while maximizing benefits and minimizing risks to their mental and social well-being,” said WHO Europe’s Natasha Azzopardi-Muscat.

The WHO also highlighted the benefits of responsible social media use, particularly for connecting with others who share similar interests.

Around 36% of young people and 44% of 15-year-old girls reported being in constant “digital” contact with their friends.

The organization recommended that national authorities improve the digital environment and educational measures to ensure safe online engagement for young people.