In recent months, worries about TikTok have soared worldwide. A new lawsuit in France blames the platform for children’s suicides. This tragic case shows how deeply social media can affect young people. It also highlights the urgent need for parents, communities, and tech companies to act.
TikTok’s Impact on Mental Health
TikTok isn’t just a video app—it shapes culture for millions of teens and preteens. Its algorithm, designed to keep users engaged, often serves up content for hours on end. But this model can expose children to harmful posts.
In France, families cite TikTok as a factor in mental health crises. The platform’s algorithm sometimes promotes troubling trends, including risky challenges or self-harm content. This cycle can feed feelings of loneliness, low self-esteem, or despair.
A Global Issue
France isn’t alone. Parents, mental health experts, and governments worldwide question social media’s role in teen depression and anxiety. The U.S., UK, and Australia have called for tighter rules and more transparency from platforms like TikTok. Research also links high social media use with increased anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts among teens.
Because TikTok is fast-paced, teens can see harmful videos almost instantly. Algorithms create echo chambers, reinforcing similar content and putting vulnerable users at higher risk.
Ways Parents Can Help
1. Encourage Open Conversations
Instead of banning TikTok, discuss the content your child sees. Ask how it makes them feel. This openness encourages them to seek help if they encounter disturbing videos.
2. Set Boundaries and Breaks
Help your child limit screen time. Promote offline activities and set device-free zones at home. Use screen time tools to stay consistent.
3. Model Healthy Use
Children copy adults. Show balanced social media habits, and let them see you log off when necessary. Demonstrating self-care teaches them to do the same.
4. Foster Real-World Relationships
Encourage time with friends and family away from screens. Face-to-face connections provide stability and balanced perspectives.
5. Seek Professional Support
Notice any worrying changes in mood or behavior? Reach out to a mental health professional. An outside view can be crucial for early intervention.
The Road Ahead
Parents shouldn’t shoulder this responsibility alone. Tech companies and governments must step up, too. While lawsuits may push platforms like TikTok to improve their algorithms, much remains to be done.
For now, parental involvement is key. By staying informed, setting limits, and providing emotional support, you can help young people navigate social media. These tools are here to stay—our job is to guide the next generation in using them safely.