Connecting with Youth: The Role of Social Media in Social Work

 "Connecting with Youth: The Role of Social Media in Social Work"

Introduction

Social media has become an essential platform for social workers and professionals to engage with young people (ages 13-25). It serves as a space for education, mental health support, and awareness campaigns. This vlog explores how social workers use TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube to connect with youth, provide guidance, and address social issues.

Examples of Social Work on Social Media

1. Lääkäri Atte (@laakari.atte) – TikTok & Instagram

Lääkäri Atte (Dr. Atte Karppinen) is a Finnish doctor who uses TikTok and Instagram to educate young people about mental health, substance abuse, and general well-being. His videos are engaging, often featuring humor and interactive content, making difficult topics easier to understand. By using short, informative clips, he helps break stigmas surrounding mental health and addiction, reaching a large audience of young people in Finland.

2. Nuortenelämä.fi – YouTube & Instagram

Nuortenelämä.fi is a Finnish youth support service that provides guidance on mental health, bullying, and life challenges. Through YouTube videos and Instagram Q&A sessions, social workers and educators answer questions from young people in a friendly and accessible format. This service ensures that professional guidance is available online, helping youth receive support outside traditional face-to-face interactions.

Strategies to Decrease Bullying Through Social Media

Social workers can utilize different platforms to raise awareness and reduce bullying among young people. Some key strategies include:

✅ TikTok & Instagram:

• Creating short, relatable videos about real-life bullying experiences.
• Encouraging influencers to spread anti-bullying messages.
• Interactive Q&A sessions where young people can share experiences and seek advice.

✅ YouTube:

• Hosting interviews with experts and victims of bullying.
• Producing educational content that teaches young people how to stand up against bullying.
• Sharing success stories of overcoming bullying.

✅ Discord & Snapchat:

• Creating safe, moderated chat spaces where social workers provide real-time support.
• Encouraging anonymous discussions to help victims open up.

My Approach to Reducing Bullying

If I were leading an anti-bullying campaign, I would:

• Start a TikTok series featuring real-life bullying stories and expert advice.
• Use Instagram Reels & Stories to promote positive messaging and support.
• Host a YouTube discussion series where professionals and young people discuss bullying experiences and solutions. 

Conclusion

Social media is a powerful tool for youth engagement, support, and social change. By using platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, social professionals can create safe spaces, educate young people, and tackle social issues like bullying and mental health.