Adopted by the European Commission on 17 September 2026, the proposal sets a harmonised EU framework for children's online safety built on four pillars: delayed access to social media, safety by design, age assurance and parental responsibility, and strong enforcement. It would prohibit social media accounts under 13, allow parent-supervised accounts at 13–14 and independent accounts from 15, and require services such as social media, video platforms, online games, AI chatbots and app stores to avoid design features that drive excessive use. It is still a proposal and must be negotiated by the European Parliament and the Council.

Conducted for the European Commission (DG SANTE) in spring 2026, the survey gathered responses from over 26,000 adolescents aged 13–18 and more than 12,700 parents across all 27 Member States. It provides comparable data on the prevalence, intensity and contexts of screen and social media use, and shows a consistent association between screen time and reported symptoms such as sleep problems, fatigue, concentration difficulties, stress and anxiety, with earlier social media use linked to heavier screen time. The findings describe statistical associations based on self-reported data rather than causal effects.

Examines how digital environments influence youth mental health, including both risks and opportunities. It synthesises emerging evidence and provides policy recommendations to promote safer, healthier digital experiences for young people.

Synthesises evidence across the European Union on how children engage with digital technologies, including patterns of access, use, benefits, and risks. It examines key issues such as digital inequalities, online safety, and the impact of digital environments on children’s development and well-being, including mental health. The brief highlights how social, economic, and structural factors shape children’s digital experiences and identifies key areas where policy action is needed to ensure that digital technologies support, rather than undermine, children’s rights and well-being.

A web-based, guided self-help tool grounded in cognitive-behavioural therapy principles, with a dedicated section for young people. It is part of routine care in Germany (free of charge), translated into multiple languages and available across several European countries.

An online peer-learning platform supporting mental health promotion and prevention among young people through digital resources and peer engagement.

A therapeutic mobile game (digital intervention) that helps children manage fears and anxiety using evidence-based techniques delivered through gameplay.

A digital mental health intervention for young people, documented in peer-reviewed research, addressing prevention/early support through an online format.

An app-based tool developed in the Czech Republic, designed primarily for young people, offering support across anxiety, eating disorders and crisis situations, plus courses and training on prevention and crisis intervention. It is available in 18 languages and adopted across several European countries.

A digital, remote mental health and psychosocial support service for migrant and refugee children; identified as a good practice in a previous UNICEF report.