Story Highlight
– UK adults averaged 4 hours 30 minutes online daily in 2025.
– Only 33% believe internet is good for society now.
– Children described excessive internet use as “brain rot.”
– VPN use doubled after mandatory age checks implemented.
– 69% of teens use online services for relaxation and wellbeing.
Full Story
UK adults have experienced a significant increase in their daily internet usage compared to figures reported during the pandemic, according to the latest findings released by the communications regulator, Ofcom. The Online Nation report for 2025 reveals that individuals in the UK now spend an average of four hours and 30 minutes online each day, marking an increase of 31 minutes from the usage patterns observed in 2021.
Psychologist Dr Aric Sigman has weighed in on the implications of this rise in screen time, suggesting that the concern is not merely the amount of time spent online, but rather the potential negative impacts on mental health stemming from what this digital activity is replacing in daily life. Dr Sigman remarked that it is encouraging to see society beginning to critically assess online engagement, suggesting a growing awareness of the possible repercussions associated with excessive screen time.
This year has seen significant cultural discussions surrounding online behaviour, particularly in light of the UK Netflix series “Adolescence,” which has garnered attention for its exploration of misogynistic online content. Compounding this, the Ofcom survey indicates a decline in the overall positive sentiment towards the internet among adults. Only 33% of respondents expressed the opinion that the internet is beneficial for society, a decrease from the 40% who felt this way the previous year. Despite this shift in perspective, nearly two-thirds of respondents still believed that the advantages of internet access continue to outweigh the associated risks. Additionally, a substantial majority of users reported that the internet serves as a platform for creativity, with approximately 75% affirming that online access has enriched their understanding of various global issues.
The report also delves into the online habits of children aged 8 to 17. While over 80% of these young individuals conveyed satisfaction with their online time, they articulated awareness of the negative consequences linked to excessive smartphone use. A phrase that has emerged among some children is “brain rot,” which they used to describe the dullness or lethargy they feel after prolonged engagement with digital content. This term captures the sentiment regarding the consumption of mindless online media that fails to stimulate critical thinking or creativity.
Moreover, Ofcom’s findings highlighted that during the hours when children are most active online, particularly platforms such as YouTube, Snapchat, TikTok, and WhatsApp, around 25% of their screen time occurs late at night between 9 PM and 5 AM. This statistic raises concerns among parents and educators regarding potential disruptions to sleep patterns and overall wellbeing.
In response to the Online Safety Act that came into effect on 25 July, which mandates that websites hosting adult content must implement stringent age verification measures, many users have turned to virtual private networks (VPNs). VPNs enable users to mask their online location, making it possible to bypass geographical restrictions. Ofcom noted that the usage of VPNs surged dramatically post-legislation, rising from approximately 650,000 daily users to a peak of over 1.4 million by mid-August. However, following this spike, VPN usage has seen a decline, settling at around 900,000 users by November.
The report also sheds light on the intentions behind children’s online activities, revealing that a notable 69% of adolescents aged 13 to 17 utilize online services to enhance their wellbeing, whether for relaxation or mood improvement. A significant portion of these users—more than half—identified ASMR (Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response) content as a preferred method to achieve relaxation. This phenomenon, which has captivated audiences for over a decade, claims to induce a tingling sensation that many listeners find soothing, and it has given rise to an entire industry of content creators catering to this niche.
However, it is essential to note that not all children reported positive experiences online. A concerning 70% indicated challenges relating to self-improvement media, often characterised by harmful messaging and body shaming. This reflects an alarming trend where young users are confronted with unrealistic standards and expectations that can adversely affect their mental health.
In conclusion, the Online Nation report underscores the evolving landscape of internet usage within the UK, particularly highlighting the complexities that accompany increased screen time. As both adults and children navigate their online experiences, the emphasis on mental health and wellbeing becomes increasingly imperative. Moving forward, it is crucial for society to address the dual nature of the internet as a source of both connection and potential harm, fostering a critical dialogue about how best to manage and mitigate its impact on the community.
Our Thoughts
The article highlights concerns around increased internet usage and its potential impact on mental health, particularly among children. To mitigate these issues, several safety measures could have been implemented. Firstly, more robust age-verification mechanisms prior to the introduction of the Online Safety Act would have helped minimize children’s access to inappropriate content and reduce the need for VPN usage, indicating a circumvention of legal requirements.
Preventative measures should include enhanced parental controls and educational programs that focus on digital literacy and the psychological impacts of excessive screen time. These initiatives align with the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, emphasizing the employer’s duty to ensure the safety and wellbeing of individuals, including the mental welfare of employees influenced by online environments.
Promoting open discussions about the effects of online content can lead to better mental health awareness, fulfilling legal responsibilities under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999. Future efforts should also focus on encouraging a balanced approach to internet usage, integrating mental health support within educational settings to address self-improvement media’s harmful effects.
