A young woman testifies in a high-profile trial, claiming she became addicted to social media at a very young age, which led to significant mental health struggles.
KGM, a 20-year-old woman, testified in a landmark US trial, revealing her early addiction to social media, starting with YouTube at six and Instagram at nine. She described how this addiction contributed to feelings of anxiety, insecurity, and depression, culminating in self-harm by the age of ten. Her testimony highlights the extensive impact that social media platforms can have on the mental health of young users.
The lawsuit against YouTube and Meta alleges that these companies intentionally design their platforms to be addictive, thereby causing harm to their young users. KGM recounted her dependence on these platforms and how she felt panic and distress when deprived of access to her cellphone, showcasing the profound influence social media can have on a user's mental state. Her experiences serve as a case study for the growing debate surrounding the responsibility of social media companies toward the mental well-being of users, particularly minors.
As the trial unfolds, KGM’s story sheds light on the critical issue of social media addiction, prompting ongoing discussions about regulatory measures and the ethical responsibilities of tech giants. It raises important questions about how such platforms can influence childhood development and mental health, and may ultimately lead to changes in legislation governing social media use among youth.
