Natalia Andoh Weighs In On Minors And Social Media Use

Mental health advocate and media personality, Natalia Andoh, has called for controlled and guided access to social media for minors, stressing that unrestricted exposure poses serious psychological and emotional risks to young people.

Speaking during a candid discussion on BIG CONVO, Natalia emphasised that while digital platforms offer learning opportunities, they also expose children to disturbing content, cyber predators and unrealistic social standards that can negatively shape their development.

According to Natalia, even adults struggle with the psychological effects of social media, including anxiety, sleep disruption and emotional distress caused by algorithm-driven content.

She shared real-life examples of patients who developed severe anxiety after exposure to graphic online videos, noting that if such content can destabilise adults, the impact on children whose identities are still forming can be far more damaging.

“Minors are still building who they are. They don’t yet have the emotional tools to process what they see online,” she explained.

Natalia also highlighted how social media perpetuates narrow beauty standards, particularly for young girls. Constant exposure to curated images, filters and influencer lifestyles can create unrealistic expectations, leading to body image issues and feelings of inadequacy.

She warned that children may internalise these standards as the norm, despite natural differences in genetics, body types and personal identity.

Responding to concerns that restricting access could make children feel deprived or rebellious later in life, Natalia clarified that parental control is not deprivation.

Instead, she advocated for: Age-appropriate access, screen-time limits, content monitoring tools and open conversations between parents and children.

“These measures help children grow into themselves first, before being overwhelmed by the internet,” she said.

The discussion also addressed online safety, with Natalia pointing out that anonymity on digital platforms has made it easier for predators to target minors. She cited gaming platforms and social apps where adults can easily initiate contact with children across borders.

Drawing from her own experience in the public eye, she recounted receiving explicit and disturbing messages from strangers, underscoring how vulnerable minors would be in similar situations.

Ultimately, Natalia stressed that the goal is to build a strong psychosocial foundation in children by teaching discipline, self-worth and healthy human interaction, so that technology becomes a tool, not a threat.

“When children are guided properly, even when they grow older and gain full access, they won’t lose themselves,” she concluded.