**Increasing Online Presence in Post-Pandemic Times**
In an interesting development stemming from an annual review by the regulator Ofcom, it has been reported that adults in the UK are spending over half an hour more online daily in 2025 compared to their internet usage during the pandemic. This increase marks a significant shift, as the average time spent online now stands at four hours and 30 minutes every day, which is 31 minutes longer than the amount of time recorded in 2021.
Psychologist Dr. Aric Sigman has suggested that while the change in online habits isn’t inherently harmful, a deeper concern looms regarding what this excessive online time is displacing and the potential adverse effects on mental health. However, Dr. Sigman also conveyed an optimistic note stating that society seems to be increasingly critical of online engagement, recognizing the need for more mindful usage of digital resources.
**Public Sentiment Towards Online Engagement**
In the context of societal perceptions, a notable reference point is the acclaimed UK Netflix drama “Adolescence,” which has brought attention to issues surrounding misogynistic content online. Nonetheless, the Ofcom report displayed a shift in sentiment regarding the perceived benefits of the internet. Shockingly, only a third (33%) of respondents acknowledged the internet’s positive societal contributions, a decrease from 40% in 2024. Despite this, a larger portion—nearly two-thirds—still believed that the advantages of being online outweighed the accompanying risks. Moreover, many adults found that the internet served as a source of creativity, and approximately three-quarters felt that being online helped enhance their understanding of world affairs.
**Children’s Perspectives on Internet Usage**
Particularly telling is the report’s exploration of children’s online experiences. A significant portion of children aged 8-17 reported satisfaction with their internet usage; however, they expressed awareness of the adverse effects associated with excessive scrolling on smartphones. Many children articulated their discomfort by referring to the term “brain rot,” which characterizes the feeling of diminished cognitive engagement resulting from prolonged screen time on non-stimulating content. It is worth noting that of the primary platforms children accessed—YouTube, Snapchat, TikTok, and WhatsApp—a substantial amount of online activity took place during late hours, with many 8 to 14-year-olds using these services between 9 PM and 5 AM.
**Impact of Online Safety Regulations**
In light of the Online Safety Act enacted on July 25, Ofcom has mandated that websites hosting pornographic material conduct stringent age verification for users. This legislation coincided with a notable increase in the use of virtual private networks (VPNs), which allow users to conceal their locations and access sites as if they were in different regions. Following the enactment of age checks, VPN usage more than doubled, reaching a peak of over 1.4 million daily users. However, as compliance with the Act has settled, the numbers have since dropped to approximately 900,000.
**Wellness and Digital Media Consumption Among Teens**
Interestingly, the report also sheds light on how the youth in the 13-17 age range utilize online platforms to bolster their well-being. Approximately 69% of children mentioned that they used online services for relaxation and mood enhancement, with over half specifically noting that they engaged with ASMR (Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response) content to achieve this sense of well-being. ASMR practices have evolved into a popular genre on platforms such as YouTube, where creators produce content designed to elicit calming sensations. However, it is essential to note that children did not regard their online interactions as solely positive; around 70% expressed concerns over self-improvement media, which often perpetuates harmful messaging and body shaming.
The findings of this report underscore the complex and evolving relationship society and particularly young individuals maintain with the digital realm. While there are benefits to be gained from online connectivity, the cautionary tales around mental health and well-being prompt critical discussions on how time spent online shapes our daily lives and societal structures.
