It is no doubt that social media usage can lead to a decline in the user’s mental health. Although many of these platforms intend to foster connections, many times they do the opposite. With a rise in social media usage worldwide, we have also seen the number of people diagnosed with depression skyrocket.

Social media audiences keep getting younger and younger

According to ConsumerNotice.org, ‘teens make up the largest audiences on some of the social media platforms’ (see article here). Millions of teenagers consume content daily that is not suited for their age. Spending hours upon hours on social media as an adolescent can lead to a plethora of negative side effects. As the audiences of these platforms get younger, more and more adolescents experience negative effects that can manifest in depression.

Suicide rates continue to climb

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), suicide is the second most common cause of deaths for 10-24 (see article here). Therefore, as the number of teens using social media increases, so does the number of suicide attempts. CNBC reported that youth suicide rates have increased a drastic 62% from 2007 to 2021 (see article here). The increase in number of suicides is mostly credited to depression caused by social media, leading to the isolation of adolescents.

What you can do to help

There are many resources available for adolescents experiencing social media caused depression. If you or someone you know is experiencing thoughts of ending their life, text the Suicide and Crisis Hotline 988 to speak with someone today.