Where Are Teens Spending Time Online, and How Can Parents Support Those Struggling with Eating Disorders?

As a parent, understanding your teen’s online world can feel overwhelming—especially if you’re concerned about how it might impact their mental health and well-being. The internet is full of platforms that offer both positive and potentially harmful content, especially for teenagers who might be vulnerable or struggling with body image and eating concerns. Let's take a minute to explore where teens are spending time online. I'll also provide some safe, supportive resources for teens dealing with eating disorders to have as options.

Popular Platforms Where Teens Hang Out Online

Teenagers are incredibly connected online, with platforms like YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat becoming daily outlets for social connection and entertainment. According to a recent survey by Pew Research, these four platforms rank as the most popular among U.S. teens. Many teens turn to these apps not just for fun but also to explore topics they might feel hesitant to discuss elsewhere, including body image and diet culture.

While social media can be a positive space for self-expression and finding supportive communities, it can also amplify negative influences. For parents concerned about their teen’s mental health and self-image, it’s helpful to stay aware of these platforms, what’s trending on them, and the types of content your teen might be consuming. I know that this is one more thing to do but the risk is too high not to be doing this.

The Risks and Rewards of Online Communities for Teens with Eating Disorders

Some online spaces offer support, recovery stories, and mental health resources, but others can encourage and normalize unhealthy behaviors. That’s why it’s important to guide teens toward safe and helpful resources if you’re worried about their relationship with food and body image.

Fortunately, several trusted organizations provide positive, recovery-focused online communities that welcome teens and their families. These are safe, supportive places for your teen if they may be struggling with an eating disorder:

1. National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders (ANAD)
   ANAD offers free, peer-led support groups for individuals and families impacted by eating disorders. These groups are an excellent way for teens to connect with others who understand their struggles, in a safe, moderated environment.

2. The Alliance for Eating Disorders Awareness
   The Alliance offers therapist-led support groups that can be attended online or in person, ensuring a professional is present to guide the discussion and offer evidence-based support. For parents, joining a group with your teen or even attending parent-focused support groups can provide insights and strategies for helping them.

3. Eating Recovery Center (ERC)
   ERC has online support groups tailored to various types of eating disorders. This structured approach means that teens can find support specifically for their experiences and connect with others working toward recovery in a positive, growth-focused space.

How Can Parents Support Teens in a Digital Age?

For parents, balancing respect for your teen’s autonomy with concern for their well-being is key. Here are some strategies for constructive engagement with your teen’s online world:

• Open Conversations: Talk openly with your teen about the content they’re viewing, making it a two-way discussion rather than an interrogation. Ask them what they enjoy and why, and share your own concerns and hopes for their well-being.

• Encourage Positive Communities: Introduce them to the above resources, explaining why they might be beneficial. You could even suggest joining a session with them to make it a shared experience.

• Empower Digital Literacy: Help your teen build skills to critically assess the content they see. Teaching them to question what they see online and consider whether it aligns with their well-being can foster independence and resilience.

• Model Healthy Boundaries: By setting examples in your own digital habits—whether it’s limiting screen time, taking social media breaks, or seeking out uplifting content—you can inspire your teen to make healthy choices online too.

All in all

Navigating the online world with a teen can be tricky, but staying informed and involved makes a big difference. Remember, there are trustworthy, safe online communities available to support teens in their recovery journey. By understanding where your teen spends time online and providing guidance toward supportive spaces, you can help them build a healthy, positive relationship with their digital world and, ultimately, with themselves.