DOCTORS should quiz kids over excessive social media use, new guidelines say.

It comes amid fears exposure to Instagram, Snapchat and Facebook can affect mental health.

Children viewing self-harm images or eating disorder material could worsen an existing illness, The Royal College of Psychiatrists said.

It also warned the use of too much technology could lead to school, sleep and behavioural problems, as well as eating issues.

The RCP recommends kids stop using phones or tablets at least an hour before going to bed and avoid them at mealtimes.

It is also backing calls for an independent regulator, a code of conduct for social media firms and a levy to pay for research into links with mental illness.

President Prof Wendy Burn said: “Technology is moving fast and we must make sure clinicians are keeping up.

“Many young people’s lives are now being dominated by the online world.”

Earlier this month a report by MPs argued social media addiction is a disease.

Molly Russell, 14, viewed content linked to anxiety, depression, self-harm and suicide before ending her life in 2017.

Ministers are due to publish a white paper on social media responsibilities.
Claire Murdoch, from NHS England, said: “It should act as wake-up call.”