UK Internet Usage Trends and Impacts

A recent survey by Ofcom reveals that UK adults spent an average of four hours and 30 minutes online daily in 2025, which is 31 minutes more than during the pandemic in 2021. This increase in internet usage has sparked discussions about its impact on society and mental health.

While many people still believe the benefits of being online outweigh the risks, there's a growing concern about the effects of prolonged internet use. Only a third of adults now feel the internet is 'good for society', down from 40% in the previous year.

Children's online experiences were also examined in the report. While most children aged 8-17 are content with their internet usage, some describe feeling 'brain rot' after excessive scrolling. Interestingly, many children use online services for relaxation and mood improvement, with ASMR videos being particularly popular among teenagers.