How media platforms can address youth mental health crisis

Thought this was really interesting—not just because it’s refreshing to hear something positive about social media, but because I’ve heard similar views firsthand while working on a teen mental health project a couple of months ago.

Two points especially resonated with me:

1. There are so many factors contributing to the current state of young people’s mental health. It feels too simplistic to pin it all on social media—though it’s clearly a big piece of the puzzle.

2. Instead of focusing solely on banning social media, maybe we should be exploring how to use these platforms to reach those in need. When you can’t beat them, join them?

I also think there are ways we could reform how these platforms work to reduce harm while leveraging their reach for good—things like better community education, access to supportive spaces, or sharing credible educational content.

I’ve read and listened to the likes of Jonathan Haidt, and while I respect his perspective, I just don’t see a complete ban of social platforms as a realistic or effective approach—at least not right now.

https://www.forbes.com/councils/forbesbusinesscouncil/2025/03/14/how-social-platforms-can-address-the-youth-mental-health-crisis/