Mental health expert Celeste Douglas encourages parents to stay neutral and ask open questions about what their teens are seeing online.
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ClarkandCompany
With headlines circulating on social media like “Households urged to keep one surprising item ready at home amid World War three fears,” it’s no wonder today’s teenagers are fearing the worst.
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With ongoing global conflicts and social media feeds flooded with fear-driven, clickbait-style news, it raises the question: how many young people are being drawn in, and how is it affecting their mental health?
To better understand the toll this digital exposure is taking on teens, The Telegraph spoke with GV Wellbeing mental health social worker Celeste Douglas, who works closely with young people facing anxiety and stress.
“The more we consume content that conveys distress, danger or conflict, the more it becomes part of our perception of reality. Naturally, that creates anxiety,” Celeste said.
“News is accessible around the clock, and apps like Instagram and TikTok blur the line between news and popular culture.
“Memes about Trump and Elon’s ‘bestie breakup’ are placed side by side with footage of foreign attacks — then the next minute, a reel of dancing cats might pop up on the screen.
“This is a very different way to consume news than for previous generations, who watched 30 minutes of nightly news around the television with their family.”
If your teen is isolating themselves, withdrawing from usual activities, no longer talking about their interests, or seems increasingly tired or irritable, these may be signs to watch for — especially if they’re not expressing how they feel.
Talking with your teen about what they’re seeing online and how it’s affecting them is more important than many parents realise.
Creating a safe, non-judgemental space where they feel comfortable asking questions about worrying content is also crucial.
Celeste said a few important steps to keep in mind include going in neutral — avoiding judgement about the content they’re viewing — and staying curious.
And ask open, non-judgemental questions about how they’ve interpreted what they’ve seen.
“Tell your teen what it’s like for you when you see that type of content and ask how it makes them feel,” she said.
“Share something different — something funny or happy — as a way to keep an open conversation about social media, not just focus on the scary stuff.”
Recent studies have shown that setting boundaries around social media and news consumption is important — not just for young people, but for all of us.
However, Celeste cautioned parents not to create a narrative that social media is inherently “bad” and to keep in mind that young people often see social media as their best way to connect with others — particularly when they are struggling.
“The best way to protect your young person is to gain insight into how they use social media,” Celeste said.
“Be curious, not intrusive or accusatory — there might even be content you both enjoy and can watch together.
“And if you’re creating boundaries, be prepared to model them yourself.”
Supporting your teen’s mental health in today’s digital world can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone.
Open conversations, offline connection, and setting healthy routines can make a real difference.
Sometimes, small changes — like taking a break from the news, curating a feed filled with uplifting content, or simply going for a walk — can help shift their mindset.
Encouraging variety in their day, whether through sport, creative hobbies, or time with friends and family, helps build resilience and balance.
Mental health social worker Celeste Douglas (right) with fellow clinician Peta Briggs from GV Wellbeing — a dedicated team supporting the mental health of young people and their families across the Goulburn Valley.
