In recent months, a wave of lawsuits have been filed against some of the world’s largest social media companies, alleging that their platforms have contributed to serious mental health issues. Plaintiffs, many of them young adults or parents, claim that the constant exposure to these platforms has led to mental health struggles, including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and even suicidal ideation. These legal actions represent a growing concern over the influence of social media on mental well-being, particularly among young adults and children.

The Allegations

The lawsuits, filed against major platforms such as Meta (Facebook, Instagram), TikTok, and Snapchat, argue that the design of these social media apps intentionally maximizes user engagement in ways that harm mental health. The plaintiffs claim that addictive features like endless scrolling, push notifications, and algorithms that prioritize sensational or negative content keep users glued to their screens for extended periods. As a result, they argue that these platforms cause feelings of inadequacy, social isolation, and anxiety.

Mental Health and Social Media: The Science

A growing body of research supports the connection between excessive social media use and mental health challenges, particularly among young people. Studies have shown that spending long hours on social media can lead to increased levels of anxiety and depression, especially in those who already have low self-esteem or are prone to social comparison.

Additionally, social media algorithms often expose users to negative content—whether it’s cyberbullying, harmful body image trends, or content related to violence and self-harm. According to the lawsuits, these algorithms create a dangerous cycle, where users, particularly adolescents, are exposed to harmful material that exacerbates existing mental health problems.

Since 2010:

• teen suicide rates are up 57%
• ER visits for anxiety up 117%
• 1/3 teen girls consider suicide, 1/5 have plan

We have to ask--what has changed since 2010?

Over 1/3 of teens now say they use social media “almost constantly.” The connection is obvious.

A Growing Legal Landscape

The current lawsuits are part of a broader legal movement seeking to hold social media companies accountable for their impact on users' mental health. Their outcome could set a precedent for how social media companies are regulated in the future. They may also spark increased attention on the importance of balancing technological innovation with public health, potentially leading to new laws and policies designed to protect users from the negative effects of excessive social media use.

Potential Damages

Potential recoverable damages can be significant and can be classified into two main categories:

• Economic damages: These include monetary costs associated with excessive use of social media’s impact on the plaintiff’s health and life and include tangible financial losses, such as medical expenses and lost wages.

• Non-economic damages: These include the pain, suffering and emotional distress that extends beyond physical injuries. Plaintiffs may seek compensation for the emotional anguish, trauma, and mental distress they have endured as a result of the harm caused by social media platforms.

Contact the Main Street Law Firm Today. There Are No Fees to You Unless we Win.

If you or your child, teen, or young adult have been diagnosed with mental health issues because of social media use, we encourage you to complete the short intake here and a legal professional will contact you to further discuss your case. We are currently accepting new social media lawsuits across the country. There are no fees to you unless we recover compensation for you.