Social media use among children and teens is nearly universal, with recent research finding a correlation between frequent social media use and an increased risk of mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. Social media is also one of the most prevalent platforms where cyberbullying occurs. New reports from the Surgeon General and the American Psychological Association provide recommendations for addressing the issue.
On May 23, 2023, Surgeon General Vivek Murthy issued a new Surgeon General's Advisory on Social Media and Youth Mental Health.
“Children are exposed to harmful content on social media, ranging from violent and sexual content, to bullying and harassment. And for too many children, social media use is compromising their sleep and valuable in-person time with family and friends. We are in the middle of a national youth mental health crisis, and I am concerned that social media is an important driver of that crisis – one that we must urgently address.” --Surgeon General Vivek Murthy
The advisory offers recommendations to help ensure healthy and safe social media environments. Read the complete press announcement.
The Surgeon General's Advisory accompanies the recent American Psychological Association Health Advisory on Social Media Use in Adolescence, which contains 10 recommendations and includes psychological competencies youth should have to promote healthy online interactions.
Related APA Resources:
How much is too much social media use?
Keeping teens safe on social media: What parents should know to protect their kids
