The Harmful Effects of Social Media on Youth Mental Health: A Call to Action from the U.S. Surgeon General

In a discussion held in Lincoln, the U.S. Surgeon General, Dr. Vivek Murthy, spoke about the detrimental effects of social media on youth across the nation. Dr. Murthy emphasized that excessive use of social media can lead to an increased risk of anxiety and depression symptoms, negative body image, and reduced time for sleep and real-life interactions.

With young people spending an average of five hours a day on social media, Dr. Murthy stressed the importance of taking action to address these issues. In 2023, he issued an advisory on the impacts of social media on youth mental health, pointing out that up to 95% of kids aged 13 to 17 use social media, with one third using it constantly.

Dr. Dave Miers from Bryan Medical Center noted that the pressures from social media, such as seeking popularity through likes and influencer status, contribute to rising suicide rates among kids. Dr. Murthy stressed that addressing these challenges requires both kids and parents to take proactive measures.

Dr. Murthy criticized the lack of meaningful safeguards from federal legislators over the past 20 years in terms of data transparency, safety, and privacy standards on social media platforms. He suggested that parents can create tech-free zones at home and teach kids how to use social media responsibly to mitigate the negative effects.

Overall, the discussion highlighted the urgent need for action to address the impact of social media on youth mental health, emphasizing the role of both parents and policymakers in creating a safer online environment for children.