What is it about?
Young people today live in a constant stream of memes, videos, and posts competing for their attention. While often fun, this nonstop digital pressure can leave teenagers feeling drained, anxious, and isolated. Studies show that excessive screen time is linked with poor sleep, increased depression, and rising rates of suicidal thoughts among adolescents. This article introduces the DECODE framework, a practical way to help young people make sense of overwhelming online environments. DECODE stands for: Defend & Define – creating healthy boundaries for digital use Expose Memes – understanding how visual messages shape emotions Cross‑Check Sources – verifying whether information is true Organize Context – connecting online content to broader knowledge Document & Disseminate – sharing trustworthy information Engage Dialogue – talking openly in safe, supportive spaces Public libraries are highlighted as trusted, accessible places where teens can learn these skills. By promoting digital discernment and real‑world connection, libraries can support youth mental health and help young people navigate today’s complex media environment with confidence.
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Why is it important?
Digital overload is now one of the most pressing challenges facing young people, yet educators, librarians, and families often lack clear, research‑based tools to address it. The DECODE framework offers a timely and actionable approach for strengthening digital wellbeing at a moment when adolescent mental health concerns are rising worldwide. It translates complex media‑literacy concepts into practical steps that can be used in everyday settings—especially in public libraries, which are trusted spaces for community learning. By providing a structured way to build digital resilience, this work contributes to global efforts aimed at supporting healthier, more informed, and more empowered youth in an increasingly attention-driven online world.
Perspectives
As a librarian and researcher, I see every day how deeply digital environments shape young people’s lives, both positively and negatively. This publication grew from a desire to offer something practical—something that teachers, librarians, and communities can use immediately to support youth who feel overwhelmed by constant online noise. The DECODE framework reflects my belief that media literacy is not just an academic topic but a foundation for mental wellbeing, critical thinking, and meaningful connection. My hope is that this work empowers both professionals and young people to engage with digital spaces more intentionally, more confidently, and more compassionately.
Niklas Ferdinand Carlsson
Linkopings universitet
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Decoding digital disorientation: a conceptual framework for library engagement with adolescent mental health in a saturated media environment, Journal of Documentation, December 2025, Emerald,
DOI: 10.1108/jd-09-2025-0276.
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