Manitoba physicians overwhelmingly believe social media and excessive screen time pose a significant risk to the health and well-being of children and youth, according to a new report from Doctors Manitoba exploring physicians’ perspectives on social media restrictions and related policy options.

“As physicians, we are increasingly seeing the impact of excessive social media and screen time on mental health, sleep, and healthy development,” said Dr. Alon Altman, President of Doctors Manitoba. ​“There is strong evidence and growing concern about these highly addictive digital platforms, and that’s why Doctors Manitoba supports government action to reduce the risks and improve the health of children and youth in Manitoba.”

After researching the issue, Doctors Manitoba conducted a survey of physicians between April 30 and May 15, 2026. More than 240 physicians participated, including family physicians, pediatricians, psychiatrists, and other specialties. The survey found:

• Social media and excessive screen time ranked as a top risk to child and youth health, ahead of concerns such as substance use, inactivity, and injuries.
• More than 9 in 10 physicians support restricting access to social media and AI chatbots for children and youth.
• Most physicians support age-based restrictions up to and including at least age 16.

The survey comes as growing evidence and expert analysis are confirming the negative impact social media and excessive screen time can have on the health and development of children and youth. In response, governments around the world are pursuing different policy approaches to reduce the health risks. 

The Manitoba government recently indicated plans to pursue an age-based ban on social media and AI chatbots for children and youth. Some countries, such as Australia, are implementing age-based bans, while others are pursuing alternative restrictions targeting addictive platform features or screen time limits. In the U.S., over 1,000 school districts and at least 40 states have pursued lawsuits against social media companies. 

“The Manitoba Pediatric Society is in full support of the proposed banning of social media for children and youth,” said Dr. Meghan Cranston, President of the Manitoba Pediatric Society. ​“As pediatricians, we see the direct impact that social media access has on development and mental health. We owe it to our kids to protect them from the online safety risks of social media.” 

While physicians strongly supported age-based restrictions, some doubted whether a smaller province like Manitoba would be successful in implementing a ban. Nevertheless, an age-based ban is the preferred approach among physicians, though other measures could also help reduce harms, including:

• Removing addictive platform features such as infinite scrolling
• Stronger moderation of harmful content
• Restrictions on advertising for minors
• Digital literacy and online safety education for children and youth

Some physicians also emphasized the importance of balancing safeguards with education, noting that young people will eventually need the skills to safely navigate online environments and emerging technologies.

The report summarizes physician perspectives on emerging evidence related to social media, AI chatbots, and youth health, as well as possible policy responses. Doctors Manitoba noted the survey was voluntary and reflects the perspectives of participating physicians.

The full report is available here.