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How social media can 'trigger' eating disorders in young people
Experts warn that social media can trigger eating disorders in vulnerable young individuals by glorifying thinness and disseminating harmful dieting advice, particularly affecting young women and girls, while the rate of eating disorders has significantly increased from 3.5% in 2000 to 7.8% in 2018, paralleling the rise of social media use.
Key points
- Social media glorifies thinness and promotes dangerous dieting advice.
- Vulnerable young people, particularly women and girls, are at a higher risk of developing eating disorders.
- There is a rising prevalence of eating disorders, increasing from 3.5% worldwide in 2000 to 7.8% in 2018.
- Men's rates of eating disorders are also rising.
Why it matters
- The increase in eating disorders parallels the growth of social media platforms and their influence since 2000.
- This trend is part of a broader concern regarding the impact of digital media on mental health, notably among youth.
The rise of social media has significant implications for mental health, particularly in promoting eating disorders among young individuals, indicating a need for awareness and action.