Mental health experts warn social media ban for minors won't solve violence

MANILA — Mental health experts have pushed back against proposals to ban social media access for minors, saying such measures would not effectively prevent violent incidents or protect young people from online harms.

The Philippine Mental Health Association Inc. (PMHA) on Friday characterized a comprehensive social media prohibition as a "nonsolution" to growing concerns over school violence and youth safety. Rather than restricting access outright, the advocacy group emphasized the need for online platforms to strengthen protective measures against harmful and violent content.

The statement comes amid broader discussions in the Philippines about youth exposure to digital platforms and its connection to behavioral and safety issues. Mental health professionals have warned that addressing root causes of violence requires multifaceted approaches beyond simple access restrictions.

The PMHA's position aligns with international perspectives on digital safety, which increasingly focus on content moderation and platform accountability rather than blanket prohibitions. Mental health advocates underscore that responsible use of social media, combined with parental guidance and quality support systems, provides more sustainable protection for young users than outright bans.

The group's call reflects ongoing tensions between public safety concerns and efforts to balance youth access to digital connectivity in the Philippines.