Meta Platforms' Social Media Rollback Exacerbates Mental Health Issues Among Youth, Warns Dr. Timothy Howel Clayton
Published on 5.16.25
Mental health has become a growing concern among young people, with many experiencing emotional struggles due to various pressures in their lives. Consultant dermatologist Dr Timothy Howel Clayton warns that the pursuit of unrealistic beauty standards on social media can lead to mental health issues such as anxiety and body dysmorphia.
The GLAAD Social Media Safety Index has assigned ratings to each platform, with a particular focus on how they protect LGBTQ+ users from hate and harassment. Meta Platforms' rollback of safety practices has been criticized for allowing users to call LGBTQ people "mentally ill". This is evident in the case of social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, which have been criticized for failing to protect their users.
The charity is urging parents to have open conversations with their children about the dangers of social media and to look for signs of emotional struggles such as changes in sleep patterns or appetite.