Sapien Labs, a nonprofit research organisation focused on global mental wellbeing, has published eye-opening findings about the relationship between smartphone use and mental health — particularly among young people.
Their annual Mental State of the World Report, based on data from hundreds of thousands of individuals worldwide, reveals a stark pattern: the younger someone is when they receive their first smartphone, the worse their mental health outcomes tend to be in adulthood.
This pattern holds across countries, cultures, and socioeconomic groups. It’s not just a coincidence. The data shows clear associations between early smartphone use and higher rates of depression, anxiety, sleep problems, self-harm, and difficulty with social relationships later in life.
Why Does Smartphone Use Impact Mental Health?
Smartphones aren’t just communication tools — they’re a gateway to social media, constant connectivity, and often, exposure to harmful content, cyberbullying, and addictive algorithms.
Early smartphone exposure interferes with key developmental stages. Childhood and early adolescence are critical periods for developing emotional regulation, real-world social skills, and a strong sense of self. Excessive screen time and online interactions can distort these processes.
The Sapien Labs Findings Summarised
- Later smartphone adoption correlates with better mental health. The average mental wellbeing scores were significantly higher for those who got their first smartphone at age 18 versus age 10 or 11.
- This trend is stronger for girls than boys. Girls who received smartphones earlier reported notably worse mental health outcomes, likely due to the intensifying pressures and dynamics of social media.
- It’s not just about screen time. It’s about when the digital world becomes a dominant force in a child’s life.
What This Means for Parents
It’s tempting to give in when your child asks for a smartphone — especially when "everyone else" seems to have one. But the science suggests that waiting may be one of the most protective, loving choices you can make for your child’s future wellbeing.
What Can You Do?
- Delay smartphone access as long as possible. Consider alternatives like basic phones that allow calls and texts without internet or apps.
- Be open and honest with your child. Explain why you’re making this decision. Ground your reasoning in love, not fear.
- Build a community of like-minded parents through Wait Mate. You’re not alone. Many families are rethinking the early smartphone trend. Work together to support shared boundaries in your child's school year group.
- Model healthy tech behaviour. Children take cues from how we use our devices. Set limits, have device-free times, and prioritise face-to-face interaction.
In Conclusion
When you give your child a smartphone can have long-term consequences. The data from Sapien Labs is a powerful reminder that childhood is not something to rush. Real friendships, real emotions, real life — those things take time, and they’re worth protecting.
So if you're wondering when to give your child a smartphone, consider this: later is better.
Your child’s mental health is worth the wait. Pledge now