Time Magazine is reporting that Instagram negatively impacts the mental health of teenagers more than any other social media network, but why? Here to help answer that question is Medical Futurist, Dr. Dan O’Brien, MD, author of the new book, “Camel Resilience: Dr. Dan’s Guide for Turning Surviving into Thriving.”
Q&A:
Dr. Dan question: How relevant is mental health right now?
Dr. Dan answer: Mental health continues to be a huge topic particularly with COVID. We are seeing a continued rise in anxiety and depression as there is a high degree of uncertainty with COVID is affecting people.
Dr. Dan question: Why is Instagram affecting the mental health of individuals particularly teenagers?
Dr. Dan answer: The research is showing that the Instagram app makes body images worse for teenage girls as research showed 1/3 of teenage girls said when they felt bad about their bodies, Instagram made them feel worse especially in what we call this “social comparison” issue that teenagers are facing.
Dr. Dan question: Is Instagram then leading to an increase in anxiety and depression?
Dr. Dan answer: Absolutely. Some of these social platforms are wanting girls to look “perfect” which in turn is leading to depression, anxiety, and even eating disorders.
Dr. Dan question: What does the future look like for these social platforms?
Dr. Dan answer: These popular apps are really affecting the teenagers so I would recommend helping your child where they are limiting their exposure to social media and it’s not an excessive amount, take a healthy break away from social media like Instagram and Facebook, and finally be engaged with your child so you can have open discussions around this.
Dr. Dan question: Let’s talk about your book Camel Resilience and do you discuss mental health in your book?
Dr. Dan answer: Yes, my book discussed how important it is right now to address mental health and how we continue to see a rise in mental health issues and even ways on how to prevent it.
GUEST: Dr. Dan O’Brien is a physician, public health expert, business-savvy consultant, researcher, podcaster, and author. Business leaders look to Dr. Dan is a “next generation” health and business expert, and makes critical decisions based on his insights and perspectives.
Dr. Dan brings cutting edge experience in research, academic teaching, scientific writing, new product launch, medical presentations and clinical work.
What makes Dr. Dan different is his ability to evaluate critical issues and devise solutions using both a medical and business mindset. Executives are able to leverage his multi-dimensional expertise to make the right choices, solve problems quickly and deliver the best outcomes.
CONTACT: Celinda Hawkins cemison@gmail.com or Tamara Colbert tamara@ohsweetliberty.com, 626-244-5571
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