From DMs to Drugs: How social media fuels teen addiction

HOUSTON - Social media could be affecting drug use and drug access in American teens.

Social media and drug influence

Big picture view:

About five hours a day — that’s how long the average U.S. teen spends on social media, according to the American Psychological Association .

Reports on the negative impact social media has on mental health in teens have been widespread for years – so much so the APA put out a health advisory on social media use in adolescence.

That advisory acknowledges that science can’t speak for every teen and that social media can be beneficial too.

Pew research found that a majority of teens see social media as a positive space for friendship and creativity – 74% saying it helps connect them with friends.

Something else to consider around social media use i