The topic under discussion revolves around the potential mental health risks associated with social media usage, particularly among individuals under the age of 18. The US Surgeon General has proposed that social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram should include warning labels to disclose these risks, which range from depression to unregulated nervous systems.
The appeal for warning labels stems from the fact that social media platforms can trigger the brain’s reward pathway, releasing dopamine, a chemical that induces feelings of pleasure. This reward system can lead to excessive usage, potentially causing harm, especially for individuals who already struggle with mental health issues.
Dr. Ambreen Ghori, a psychiatrist, explains that for those who perceive the world negatively, social media can exacerbate these feelings, leading to increased symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Nancy Michael, the Director of Neuroscience and Behavior at Notre Dame, further emphasizes the concern, stating that the developing brain, which takes 27 years to fully develop, can be hijacked by social media, leading to an imbalance in the nervous system’s development.
Michael also notes that excessive social media usage can lead to extreme choices in both directions, with some students choosing to quit social media altogether, while others may sacrifice essential behaviors like sleep due to excessive scrolling.
