This heartbreaking story reveals the truth about social media, that it can be a dangerous and unregulated space where harmful words spread quickly and widely, often without consequence. Knowing this, it causes more mental health issues amongst teens such as anxiety, depression, self harm and suicide.

In addition, teens can easily access extreme, inappropriate, and harmful content online. For example, many teen deaths have been connected to exposure to suicide- and self-harm-related content—such as “cutting,” partial asphyxiation, and dangerous social media challenges. Studies also show that discussing or displaying this type of content can normalize harmful behaviors, increasing the risk for vulnerable teens.

These findings underscore the urgent need for stronger safeguards on digital platforms and more support for young people navigating the online world during this formative stage of life.

The harmful effects of constant exposure to idealized images, unrealistic beauty standards, and the influence of social media influencers which are all seen across social media. Contributing factors such as comparison culture, social comparison theory, and the pervasive influence of online personalities all play a role in amplifying these negative effects.

Consequences include risky health behaviors, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and attempts. In addition, incredibly low self-esteem.