Surgeon General Urges Immediate Protection for Kids from Social Media Risks

The US Surgeon General has issued an advisory warning that social media use among kids and teens poses a significant mental health risk that needs to be addressed immediately. The report is based on "a substantial review of the available evidence" on the impact of social media. Social media use can be potentially harmful, leading to or exacerbating eating disorders, low self-esteem, and depression, according to studies the surgeon general's office cited. The surgeon general lays out several recommendations for policymakers, tech companies, parents and caregivers, young social media users, and researchers.