Statement on Surgeon General Advisory: Effects of Social Media on Youth Mental Health
Earlier this week, Surgeon General Vivek Murthy released an advisory stating, “there is not enough evidence to determine whether social media is safe enough for children and adolescents when it comes to their mental health.” While it may offer some benefits, social media presents “a profound risk of harm” to the mental well-being of young people.
Vibrant Emotional Health (Vibrant) fully supports the Surgeon General’s advisory and recommended steps that policymakers and technology leaders can take to safeguard the mental health of youth.
While more research is needed to determine the mental health impacts posed by social media fully, it is important that immediate steps are taken to ensure children and their families have the information, tools, and resources to make social media safer.
Vibrant is dedicated to working with technology leaders, policymakers, and youth-serving organizations to support the mental well-being of young people both on and offline. Our mission is to provide emotional support when, where, and how people need it most.
If you or someone you know is in emotional distress, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline to connect with a trained counselor. 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support via call, text and chat.
Sincerely,
Kimberly Williams
President & CEO
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