As we navigate the complexities of parenting in the digital age, it's crucial to address a growing concern that affects our teens: the impact of social media on their mental health. Recently, United States Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy proposed implementing warning labels on social media platforms to inform parents about the potential risks these platforms pose to adolescents' mental health. This initiative, similar to the warning labels on tobacco and alcohol products, could be a positive step towards protecting our children's well-being.

Dr. Murthy's call for warning labels is a response to escalating concerns for adolescent mental health in the United States. In May 2023, he advised parents to set immediate limits on phone use and urged Congress to develop comprehensive health and safety standards for technology platforms. He also encouraged tech companies to be more transparent by sharing internal data on the health impacts of their products, aiming to restrict features that make these platforms so addictive. 

As parents and guardians, it's important to recognize the negative impact that social media can have on your teen's mental health. Excessive use of social media has been linked to increased anxiety, depression, and a distorted sense of self-worth. Constant comparisons to curated and often unrealistic portrayals of others' lives can lead to feelings of inadequacy and loneliness. Additionally, the addictive nature of social media can interfere with mental health by impacting sleep, academic performance, and real-life social interactions.

How To Support Youth with Mental Health Concerns

In my practice, I have witnessed the detrimental effects of unchecked social media use on teens. Here are some steps you can take to help mitigate these risks:

1. Set Boundaries: Establish clear rules for social media use, including time limits and device-free zones or times, such as during meals and before bedtime.
2. Encourage Open Communication: Talk to your teens about the content they encounter online and the emotions they experience. Encourage them to come to you with any mental health concerns or negative experiences.
3. Promote Healthy Activities: Encourage activities that do not involve screens, such as outdoor play, reading, and hobbies that foster creativity and social interaction.
4. Be a Role Model: Demonstrate healthy technology use yourself. Show that life can be rich and fulfilling beyond the digital world.
5. See a Physician: Seeking help from medical professionals is an important step in addressing serious mental health concerns, especially amongst youth.

As your healthcare provider, I am committed to supporting you during your family's journey in improving your mental and physical well-being. Let's take proactive steps together to protect our adolescents from the potential harms of social media. By being informed, setting boundaries, and having open communication, we can help our teens develop healthy habits in the face of digital challenges.

My dedicated team and I are here to support you and your family on this journey to better mental and physical health. Let's work together to ensure a brighter, healthier future for our youth. Even something as simple as a physical or a routine doctor’s visit can be the first step in making progress towards better habits and mental health. Learn more about our services and how they can improve you and your families overall well-being today.



Dr. Jordan