Do Social Media Algorithms Contribute to Depression and Anxiety?

Social media platforms such as Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram have allegedly caused young users psychological distress. With algorithms that promote doomscrolling, users may spend hours on end viewing, liking, and sharing posts. The compulsive desire to stay on a phone or tablet can lead to depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders. If you or your child has fallen victim to social media addiction, HGSK Injury Lawyers is here to assist you in filing a claim. Our Philadelphia personal injury attorneys will gather pertinent evidence to help you achieve a successful outcome.

Impact of Social Media Algorithms on the Brain

If you have ever found yourself scrolling through personal feeds or reels at night, you have fallen victim to social media addiction. Social media algorithms stimulate the brain’s pleasure center, releasing dopamine. The constant release of dopamine encourages addictive behaviors. So, spending hours on social media is similar to experiencing a high from a drug or alcohol addiction. The more “likes” a teen receives on a post, the more time is spent on the platform, continuing the cycle.

Alarmingly, continual social media use has been shown to produce changes in the prefrontal cortex. The prefrontal cortex is responsible for decision-making, controlling impulses, and planning, among other aspects. Since teens struggle with impulse control, addictive tendencies are more prevalent in this group. Internet addiction can cause impairments in cognitive function, increasing sensitivity to outside stimuli, and reducing a person’s inhibition. Unfortunately, an individual with an impaired prefrontal cortex is likely to favor instant gratification over long-term goals.

Social Media’s Contribution to Anxiety and Depression

Constant social media use leads to young people making unrealistic comparisons between themselves and others. Mood changes are only intensified when adolescents are having screentime when they should be going to sleep. The blue light that is emitted from digital screens has been shown to disrupt a person’s circadian rhythm and even suppress melatonin production. This sleep deprivation further impairs a teen’s ability to regulate emotions, contributing to depression and anxiety.

Potential Compensation Against Social Media Platforms

Social media algorithms serve the purpose of keeping users hooked to their devices. This comes at the cost of their mental health and neurological development. Sadly, young people are more susceptible to mood disorders given their brain chemistry. With creators posting monetized content, there is no sign that the issue is going away anytime soon.

In recent years, lawsuits against social media conglomerates have surged. Victims have sought compensation for the cognitive, emotional, and mental harm suffered. Potential damages in a social media addiction suit involve expenses related to talk therapy, anti-depressants, and other medical bills. Adults may seek damages for lost wages, lost earning potential, and medical expenses, as well. At HGSK Injury Lawyers, we will advocate for the compensation that is rightfully due to your child and your family.

Reach Out to Our Philadelphia Personal Injury Attorneys

If you or your child has suffered mental distress due to social media use, our legal team at HGSK Injury Lawyers would like to hear from you. Our Philadelphia injury lawyers understand the impact that social media platforms can have on young people, impairing neurological development. To schedule a free consultation to discuss your matter, contact us online or by calling (267) 551-8782 today.