This document was heavily based on experiential expertise. The consultation specifically included a Youth Advisory Group of 8 young people aged 16-24 with lived experience, plus 226 public survey responses from young people, parents, and educators sharing their real-world experiences. However, it also incorporated academic research expertise from university professors and mental health professionals, making it a blend of experiential and academic knowledge.
Consultation summary: Digital technologies and youth mental health
Overview
Australia's National Mental Health Commission conducted a 2023 consultation on digital technologies and youth mental health. While no direct causal evidence exists, digital tech may amplify factors contributing to rising psychological distress among young people aged 15-24. The report emphasizes balanced approaches that preserve benefits while addressing potential harms.
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Key insights
Key Insights:
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No direct causation proven - Digital technology doesn't directly cause mental health issues in youth
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Amplification effect - Technology may amplify existing factors that contribute to psychological distress
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Connection benefits - Digital tech facilitates positive social connection, especially for marginalized communities
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Education emphasis - Need for evidence-based digital literacy programs co-designed with young people
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Safety by Design - Technology companies should prioritize user safety from product development start
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Balanced engagement - Disconnecting is difficult as digital tech is essential for education/work
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Research gaps - More longitudinal studies needed to understand technology's mental health impacts
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Collaborative solutions - Meaningful stakeholder collaboration required including youth, families, educators, tech companies
Did this resource draw on transformative evidence?
This document incorporated significant practice wisdom. It gathered insights from youth mental health professionals, educators, service providers, and parents/carers who shared their real-world experiences working with young people. The consultation captured practical knowledge from those directly supporting youth mental health, including what interventions have worked and what challenges they've observed in practice with digital technology impacts.
This document had limited research and evaluation insights. While it referenced existing studies showing increased psychological distress in young people, the Commission acknowledged that research in this area is "rapidly emerging" with "limited large-scale, longitudinal and causal studies." The document primarily relied on consultation responses rather than rigorous research, and identified the need for more comprehensive evidence-based understanding as a key priority.