Tanya Dutt

Optical Illusion: What You See Reveals How You Perceive Shapes And Objects

The B/13 Illusion (Credit: unbounce)

What do you see when you first glance at the image below? At first, it appears to be the letter "B," right?

But wait – look again. What does it resemble now? Suddenly, it transforms into the number 13.

This illusion mirrors a study conducted in 1955. In the experiment, two groups of participants were shown different sets of stimuli: one group viewed letters, while the other group saw numbers. In both cases, an ambiguous figure resembling both the letter "B" and the number "13" was presented. The study revealed that participants who had been shown letters beforehand perceived the figure as a "B," while those who had seen numbers interpreted it as "13."

This <span>optical illusion</span> demonstrates how perception can shift based on prior context – in this case, what the viewer had previously encountered.

This leads us to an essential psychological concept known as a <span>perceptual set</span>. 

A perceptual set refers to the tendency to perceive things in a certain way, influenced by expectations, emotions, motivation, and cultural background. For instance, a person visiting your website might not immediately grasp the message if their mind is set on something different.

In this optical illusion, if you can only see the letter "B" or the number "13," your perceptual organization – the brain's creative center – is active and dominant. However, if you're able to detect both the number "13" and the letter "B," according to <span>Gestalt theory</span>, the area of your brain responsible for memory organization, stimulus processing, and emotional regulation – the <span>amygdala</span> – is highly active and strong.

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What do you see when you first glance at the image below? At first, it appears to be the letter "B," right?That's B for Bingo!But wait – look again. What does it resemble now? Suddenly, it transforms into the number 13.This illusion mirrors a study conducted in 1955. In the experiment, two groups of participants were shown different sets of stimuli: one group viewed letters, while the other group saw numbers. In both cases, an ambiguous figure resembling both the letter "B" and the number "13" was presented. The study revealed that participants who had been shown letters beforehand perceived the figure as a "B," while those who had seen numbers interpreted it as "13."This optical illusion demonstrates how perception can shift based on prior context – in this case, what the viewer had previously encountered.This leads us to an essential psychological concept known as a perceptual set. A perceptual set refers to the tendency to perceive things in a certain way, influenced by expectations, emotions, motivation, and cultural background. For instance, a person visiting your website might not immediately grasp the message if their mind is set on something different.In this optical illusion, if you can only see the letter "B" or the number "13," your perceptual organization – the brain's creative center – is active and dominant. However, if you're able to detect both the number "13" and the letter "B," according to Gestalt theory, the area of your brain responsible for memory organization, stimulus processing, and emotional regulation – the amygdala – is highly active and strong.

optical illusion: what you see reveals how you perceive shapes and objects

Health and Me

Heart Attack Signs You Might Miss: Woman Shares Warning Signs She Felt A Week Before

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Heart attacks are often portrayed as sudden and unmistakable — crushing chest pain, gasping for breath, collapsing to the ground. But for many, especially women, the signs can be far more subtle. A recent case from Houston, Texas, has reignited the conversation around the often-overlooked symptoms of heart attacks and how misinterpreting them can delay life-saving treatment.

Nikki, a 46-year-old woman with no previous medical conditions, took to TikTok to share her personal story of surviving a heart attack. Her message? “Listen to your body.” What seemed like ordinary aches and fatigue turned out to be her body’s warning signals — ones she initially brushed off as symptoms of perimenopause.

Nikki’s story begins a week before her heart attack — with nothing more than a sore shoulder.

“It felt like I slept on it wrong,” she explained in a TikTok video that has now garnered over 7.5 million views. Like many women navigating their 40s, she chalked it up to perimenopause, suspecting a “frozen shoulder,” which is often associated with hormonal changes. The pain, while noticeable, didn’t alarm her.

But the next day, the discomfort persisted. More concerningly, it was accompanied by a wave of nausea that lasted about 15 minutes. Again, Nikki shook it off and resumed her daily routine.

On the morning of her heart attack, Nikki experienced the same dull shoulder ache and another wave of nausea. This time, though, things escalated. Her chest began to feel tight — a deep, squeezing sensation — and the shoulder pain started radiating down her arm.

Still, trying not to overreact, she took a warm shower to ease her symptoms. She felt better afterward and even proceeded to a doctor’s appointment for an unrelated issue.

At the clinic, Nikki recounted her symptoms and asked if she should go to the emergency room. The doctor told her that unless the symptoms reappeared, an ER visit might not be necessary. Reassured but uncertain, she left. That decision nearly cost her life.

Just an hour later, as she stepped out of a restaurant after lunch, Nikki’s symptoms returned with alarming intensity.

“My chest felt like it was being squeezed as tight as you could squeeze it. The pain was now radiating all the way down my arm. I started sweating profusely,” she recalled.

Realizing the gravity of the moment, Nikki drove herself to the ER — just one street away. She walked up to the counter and said, “I need someone to look at my heart right this second.” A nurse saw her trembling and rushed her into care. Within minutes, doctors confirmed she was in the midst of a heart attack.

Quick action saved her life. But her story reveals how easy it is to ignore — or misdiagnose — early signs, especially in women without known risk factors.

Nikki’s experience underscores a well-documented issue in cardiovascular health: women often experience different, less-recognized symptoms of heart attacks compared to men. While classic signs such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and left-arm pain are common in men, women may experience:

Because these symptoms don’t match the stereotypical heart attack portrayal, they’re often mistaken for other conditions like anxiety, menopause, acid reflux, or even the flu.

In Nikki’s case, shoulder pain and nausea were the warning bells — but they were too easy to dismiss until it was almost too late.

Why Heart Attack is A Rising Trend Among the Under-50s?

Heart disease has long been associated with older adults, but recent trends show an unsettling rise in heart attacks among those under 50 — especially women. In the UK alone, more than 2 million people are diagnosed with heart disease, and millions more live with undiagnosed high blood pressure, a leading risk factor.

Data from both the UK and US indicate that heart attacks in younger adults are increasing, driven by a blend of risk factors including:

What’s more, post-COVID delays in diagnostics, treatment, and even emergency response times have only worsened outcomes for younger patients.

Nikki’s case remains medically puzzling. Tests found no blockages or plaque buildup in her arteries — a common cause of heart attacks. Instead, a women’s heart specialist at The Texas Heart Institute attributed the event to a “perfect storm” — a combination of perimenopausal hormonal changes and a recent illness that may have inflamed her heart.

“She does not believe there’s a strong genetic link at this time,” Nikki shared. However, follow-up scans suggest she may have sustained some permanent damage to her heart, and she continues to undergo further testing and care.

Nikki’s viral TikTok struck a chord globally. Not only did it help other women connect the dots between vague symptoms and serious cardiac risks, but it also opened up a wider dialogue about how we talk about — and treat — women’s <span>heart health</span>.

In the comments, many thanked her for sharing symptoms that might have otherwise gone unnoticed. Others expressed alarm at how easily the signs could be brushed off.

In Nikki’s own words: “Had I not been one street away from the ER, I might not be here telling this story.”

This story serves as a stark reminder that heart attacks don’t always look like they do in movies — and they certainly don’t only happen to older men with a history of heart disease.

If you experience unusual fatigue, persistent shoulder or chest discomfort, nausea, or any new and unexplained symptoms, don’t wait. Trust your instincts. Seek medical attention immediately — even if you’re “too young,” “too healthy,” or “too busy.”

heart health

early heart attack signs

heart attack in women

perimenopause symptoms heart

shoulder pain heart attack

female heart attack symptoms

silent heart attack warning

nikki tiktok heart attack

Heart attacks are often portrayed as sudden and unmistakable — crushing chest pain, gasping for breath, collapsing to the ground. But for many, especially women, the signs can be far more subtle. A recent case from Houston, Texas, has reignited the conversation around the often-overlooked symptoms of heart attacks and how misinterpreting them can delay life-saving treatment.Nikki, a 46-year-old woman with no previous medical conditions, took to TikTok to share her personal story of surviving a heart attack. Her message? “Listen to your body.” What seemed like ordinary aches and fatigue turned out to be her body’s warning signals — ones she initially brushed off as symptoms of perimenopause.Nikki’s story begins a week before her heart attack — with nothing more than a sore shoulder.“It felt like I slept on it wrong,” she explained in a TikTok video that has now garnered over 7.5 million views. Like many women navigating their 40s, she chalked it up to perimenopause, suspecting a “frozen shoulder,” which is often associated with hormonal changes. The pain, while noticeable, didn’t alarm her.But the next day, the discomfort persisted. More concerningly, it was accompanied by a wave of nausea that lasted about 15 minutes. Again, Nikki shook it off and resumed her daily routine.On the morning of her heart attack, Nikki experienced the same dull shoulder ache and another wave of nausea. This time, though, things escalated. Her chest began to feel tight — a deep, squeezing sensation — and the shoulder pain started radiating down her arm.Still, trying not to overreact, she took a warm shower to ease her symptoms. She felt better afterward and even proceeded to a doctor’s appointment for an unrelated issue.At the clinic, Nikki recounted her symptoms and asked if she should go to the emergency room. The doctor told her that unless the symptoms reappeared, an ER visit might not be necessary. Reassured but uncertain, she left. That decision nearly cost her life.Just an hour later, as she stepped out of a restaurant after lunch, Nikki’s symptoms returned with alarming intensity.“My chest felt like it was being squeezed as tight as you could squeeze it. The pain was now radiating all the way down my arm. I started sweating profusely,” she recalled.Realizing the gravity of the moment, Nikki drove herself to the ER — just one street away. She walked up to the counter and said, “I need someone to look at my heart right this second.” A nurse saw her trembling and rushed her into care. Within minutes, doctors confirmed she was in the midst of a heart attack.Quick action saved her life. But her story reveals how easy it is to ignore — or misdiagnose — early signs, especially in women without known risk factors.Nikki’s experience underscores a well-documented issue in cardiovascular health: women often experience different, less-recognized symptoms of heart attacks compared to men. While classic signs such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and left-arm pain are common in men, women may experience:FatigueIndigestion or nauseaPain in the jaw, back, or shoulderLightheadednessCold sweatsBecause these symptoms don’t match the stereotypical heart attack portrayal, they’re often mistaken for other conditions like anxiety, menopause, acid reflux, or even the flu.In Nikki’s case, shoulder pain and nausea were the warning bells — but they were too easy to dismiss until it was almost too late.Why Heart Attack is A Rising Trend Among the Under-50s?Heart disease has long been associated with older adults, but recent trends show an unsettling rise in heart attacks among those under 50 — especially women. In the UK alone, more than 2 million people are diagnosed with heart disease, and millions more live with undiagnosed high blood pressure, a leading risk factor.Data from both the UK and US indicate that heart attacks in younger adults are increasing, driven by a blend of risk factors including:ObesitySedentary lifestylesHigh blood pressureDiabetesChronic stressPoor dietWhat’s more, post-COVID delays in diagnostics, treatment, and even emergency response times have only worsened outcomes for younger patients.Nikki’s case remains medically puzzling. Tests found no blockages or plaque buildup in her arteries — a common cause of heart attacks. Instead, a women’s heart specialist at The Texas Heart Institute attributed the event to a “perfect storm” — a combination of perimenopausal hormonal changes and a recent illness that may have inflamed her heart.“She does not believe there’s a strong genetic link at this time,” Nikki shared. However, follow-up scans suggest she may have sustained some permanent damage to her heart, and she continues to undergo further testing and care.Nikki’s viral TikTok struck a chord globally. Not only did it help other women connect the dots between vague symptoms and serious cardiac risks, but it also opened up a wider dialogue about how we talk about — and treat — women’s heart health.In the comments, many thanked her for sharing symptoms that might have otherwise gone unnoticed. Others expressed alarm at how easily the signs could be brushed off.In Nikki’s own words: “Had I not been one street away from the ER, I might not be here telling this story.”This story serves as a stark reminder that heart attacks don’t always look like they do in movies — and they certainly don’t only happen to older men with a history of heart disease.If you experience unusual fatigue, persistent shoulder or chest discomfort, nausea, or any new and unexplained symptoms, don’t wait. Trust your instincts. Seek medical attention immediately — even if you’re “too young,” “too healthy,” or “too busy.”

heart attack signs you might miss: woman shares warning signs she felt a week before

Ishita Roy

Global Warming Is Behind the Rise of Dangerous New Fungal Diseases

Infection Causing Fungal Infection Could Kill Millions

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<span>Global warming</span> is a rising concern; however, it not just environment, but also affects our health. While we may think that global warming only leads to environmental resources being perished, however, the impact is way more. Whatever happens to the environment is directly related to humans. As per a new research by scientists from Manchester University, due to the rising temperature, a deadly fungus could cause millions of deaths annually and will spread globally. This is the Aspergillus family, which will proliferate in new regions and cause infections.

The report by Manchester University notes that the moulds living among us could further trigger the next disease outbreak.

<a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/how-dangerous-is-black-mold-in-home-can-it-harm-your-brain-article-151190493" data-type="tilCustomLink">Mold </a>are microscopic fungus that grows in damp conditions. mold spores are present everywhere and are released in large numbers into the air. Signs of mold at home include black, white, or green patches on walls and a musty smell.

It is a group of fungi which is present globally and can cause aspergillosis, a lung disease that could spread to other organs, including your brain.

As per Science Direct, it is also an industrial chemical used for the fermentation of various foods like soy sauce, miso, and sake; however, it can also be dangerous to your health.

It also releases a huge amount of tiny spores into the air, which can cause health issues to those who consume it. It could be even concerning for those with a compromised immune system, especially people with asthma, cystic fibrosis, cancer, or anyone with a severe flu or Covid-19. These conditions may make it impossible for you to clear the spores.

Norman van Rijn, who is one of the study authors, told CNN that if the body fails to get rid of these spores, the fungus “starts to grow and basically kind of eat you from the inside out, saying it really bluntly,”

<strong>ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/exposure-to-mold-can-lead-to-neurological-symptoms-know-what-they-are-article-151109626" data-type="tilCustomLink">Exposure To Mold Can Lead To Neurological Symptoms: Know What They Are</a></strong>

The author noted that mortality rates of Aspergillosis are actually at 20 to 40%; however, not many people get to know it, as it usually causes common symptoms like fevers and coughs.

The fungi can also alter brain functions. What happens with mold is that it can get inside your home through open doors, windows, and air conditioning systems. Inhaling mold spores or coming into contact with mold can have severe adverse effects on your health. Beyond physical symptoms like headache and allergic symptoms, it can have a significant impact on the brain and nervous system. Symptoms may vary, from mild headaches to more severe issues like memory loss or difficulty walking. While it can affect anybody, certain groups like children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable to these effects.

In a video game-turned-TV show, The Last of US, a fictional brain-altering fungus that wipes out humanity has been shown, many draw the fungus's parallel to it. This is also because, while it is not a known fact, however, the reality is fungi fungi-related deaths are at 5% globally.

Researchers have found that certain species of Aspergillus fungi are likely to expand into new regions of North America, Europe, China, Russia, and Asia as global temperatures rise.

The study—funded by the Wellcome Trust—used computer models and climate projections to map the future spread of Aspergillus strains, including A. flavus, A. fumigatus, and A. niger.

“Fungi are relatively under-studied compared to viruses and parasites, but our maps suggest fungal pathogens are likely to affect most regions of the world in the future,” study author van Rijn told CNN.

One of the key findings, reported by CNN, is that Aspergillus fumigatus could expand its range northward toward the Arctic. By 2100, it could spread 77.5% farther than it currently does, potentially putting around 9 million people in Europe at risk.

Aspergillus fumigatus thrives in warm, organic environments like compost, and it can grow “astonishingly quickly” at high temperatures, said Professor Elaine Bignell, co-director of the MRC Centre for Medical Mycology at the University of Exeter, in a comment to the Financial Times.

“Its natural lifestyle may have given A. fumigatus the resilience it needs to invade human lungs,” Bignell added.

fungal disease

fungi disease

health news

global warming

mold

Global warming is a rising concern; however, it not just environment, but also affects our health. While we may think that global warming only leads to environmental resources being perished, however, the impact is way more. Whatever happens to the environment is directly related to humans. As per a new research by scientists from Manchester University, due to the rising temperature, a deadly fungus could cause millions of deaths annually and will spread globally. This is the Aspergillus family, which will proliferate in new regions and cause infections.The report by Manchester University notes that the moulds living among us could further trigger the next disease outbreak.What Is Mold?Mold are microscopic fungus that grows in damp conditions. mold spores are present everywhere and are released in large numbers into the air. Signs of mold at home include black, white, or green patches on walls and a musty smell.What Is Aspergillus?It is a group of fungi which is present globally and can cause aspergillosis, a lung disease that could spread to other organs, including your brain.As per Science Direct, it is also an industrial chemical used for the fermentation of various foods like soy sauce, miso, and sake; however, it can also be dangerous to your health.It also releases a huge amount of tiny spores into the air, which can cause health issues to those who consume it. It could be even concerning for those with a compromised immune system, especially people with asthma, cystic fibrosis, cancer, or anyone with a severe flu or Covid-19. These conditions may make it impossible for you to clear the spores.Norman van Rijn, who is one of the study authors, told CNN that if the body fails to get rid of these spores, the fungus “starts to grow and basically kind of eat you from the inside out, saying it really bluntly,”ALSO READ: Exposure To Mold Can Lead To Neurological Symptoms: Know What They AreWhat Does It Do To You?The author noted that mortality rates of Aspergillosis are actually at 20 to 40%; however, not many people get to know it, as it usually causes common symptoms like fevers and coughs.The fungi can also alter brain functions. What happens with mold is that it can get inside your home through open doors, windows, and air conditioning systems. Inhaling mold spores or coming into contact with mold can have severe adverse effects on your health. Beyond physical symptoms like headache and allergic symptoms, it can have a significant impact on the brain and nervous system. Symptoms may vary, from mild headaches to more severe issues like memory loss or difficulty walking. While it can affect anybody, certain groups like children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable to these effects.In a video game-turned-TV show, The Last of US, a fictional brain-altering fungus that wipes out humanity has been shown, many draw the fungus's parallel to it. This is also because, while it is not a known fact, however, the reality is fungi fungi-related deaths are at 5% globally.What Did The Study Find?Researchers have found that certain species of Aspergillus fungi are likely to expand into new regions of North America, Europe, China, Russia, and Asia as global temperatures rise.The study—funded by the Wellcome Trust—used computer models and climate projections to map the future spread of Aspergillus strains, including A. flavus, A. fumigatus, and A. niger.“Fungi are relatively under-studied compared to viruses and parasites, but our maps suggest fungal pathogens are likely to affect most regions of the world in the future,” study author van Rijn told CNN.One of the key findings, reported by CNN, is that Aspergillus fumigatus could expand its range northward toward the Arctic. By 2100, it could spread 77.5% farther than it currently does, potentially putting around 9 million people in Europe at risk.Aspergillus fumigatus thrives in warm, organic environments like compost, and it can grow “astonishingly quickly” at high temperatures, said Professor Elaine Bignell, co-director of the MRC Centre for Medical Mycology at the University of Exeter, in a comment to the Financial Times.“Its natural lifestyle may have given A. fumigatus the resilience it needs to invade human lungs,” Bignell added.

global warming is behind the rise of dangerous new fungal diseases

Former Surgeon General Calls Out Congress For 'Failing To Protect' Kids’ Mental Health

This Phone Habit Could Be A Sign Of Narcissism, Psychologists Reveal

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Extreme Diet With Only 5 Foods, Bodybuilder Left In A Coma Due To Steroid Addiction- What Are The Risks Of Steroid Use?

extreme diet with only 5 foods, bodybuilder left in a coma due to steroid addiction- what are the risks of steroid use?

Imagine handing your child the keys to a car—no seatbelt, no airbags, no traffic lights—and saying, "Just go." Crazy, isn't it? That's exactly how Dr. Vivek Murthy, past U.S. Surgeon General, describes current digital world our kids are exposing themselves to every day. With increasing alarm regarding the <span>mental health</span> epidemic among children and adolescents, he's decrying Congress for what he perceives as a staggering failure to shield them from the unregulated and oftentimes toxic reach of social media.

Dr. Vivek Murthy has openly criticized Congress for its inaction in the face of increasing evidence that social media is damaging children's mental health. Making stark comparisons with previous public safety failures, Dr. Murthy compared today's online environment to "putting our kids in cars with no seat belts," referring to it as a risky, unregulated environment where teenagers are left exposed without institutional safeguarding.

This potent message arrives at a time when legislative priorities are elsewhere, with Congress occupied with President Donald Trump's sweeping megabill on immigration, defense, and health care with little attention to regulation of technology and online safety.

In his recent Meet the Press interview on NBC, Dr. Murthy minced no words. "Congress has thus far neglected its obligation to safeguard our children," he asserted, citing the absence of regulatory protections for apps such as TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat—apps that dominate the online lives of American teens.

Though a bill mandating TikTok's disconnection from its Chinese parent company was enacted, its implementation has been continuously postponed. The app persists in thriving, even garnering applauds from Trump for mobilizing young voters. But beneath the politics is an underlying issue: social media's psychological and emotional impact on today's youth.

<h2>Rising Mental Health Issues Among Teens</h2>

Dr. Murthy has long been warning of the mental health crisis facing American children. In his 2023 advisory, Social Media and Youth Mental Health, he underlined that social media can be a positive force for young users but has become increasingly a driver of loneliness, anxiety, and negative self-image—particularly among teenage girls.

He once again expressed this concern during June 2024, appealing to Congress to make warning labels mandatory on social media sites, similar to what is placed on cigarettes. "Parents and children need to know the dangers," Murthy said. "We're years behind where we should be in setting digital safety standards."

<h2>How Social Media Affect Kids Mental Health?</h2>

While long-term data is still in short supply because technology continues to change, recent studies are indicating troubling trends. A study among American teenagers between the ages of 12–15 found that spending more than three hours a day on social media doubled the chances of suffering from symptoms of depression and anxiety. The American Psychological Association (APA) has also been repeating the same, citing increased instances of body image problems, eating disorders, and sleep disruptions attributed to excessive social media usage.

Moreover, unhealthy online material—everything from self-harm challenges to unrealistic beauty ideals—can fuel emotional dysregulation, particularly among susceptible young people. In 2021, a review of 50 studies across 17 nations substantiated that regular exposure to such material elevates the possibility of eating disorders and body dissatisfaction, especially among adolescent girls.

<h2>Overstimulation, Addiction, and the Brain's Reward System</h2>

Dr. Murthy's advisory highlighted that repeated exposure to social media could overstimulate the reward center of the brain and trigger addictive behavior with similarities to substance use disorders. Liking, sharing, and notifications could habituate teenagers to crave digital approval to the detriment of actual relationships and offline activities.

In addition, overuse of social media disturbs normal habits such as sleep, exercise, and in-person socialization. Blue light emitted by screens and psychological overstimulation of going through one's feeds late at night can lead to lack of sleep—yet another important factor associated with depression and bad mental health outcomes.

<h2>Role of FOMO and Online Peer Pressure</h2>

One of the most harmful trends is the Fear of Missing Out (FOMO). When adolescents witness their friends sharing updates of social activities or experiences they did not have a part in, it may leave them feeling excluded and inadequate. Social comparison is heightened by social media, and because people typically post idealized content, it is simpler to assume that others are happier or more successful.

This produces a skewed view of the real world and a need to maintain a pace—"the pressure to keep up"—an emotional load many adolescents are ill-prepared to manage.

Even though legislation takes time to progress, communities and parents cannot afford to wait. Dr. Murthy advises waiting to introduce children to social media until they are in middle school at the very least. For those with young children already on platforms, he advises establishing "tech-free zones" within the home—like at the dinner table or in the hours leading up to bedtime.

Furthermore, parents can take proactive action to encourage healthy digital habits:

<ul><li>Institute regular digital detox sessions and tech-free hours.</li><li>Switch off irrelevant notifications to minimize incessant participation.</li><li>Discuss online activities openly, cyberbullying, and emotional health.</li><li>Supervise and co-watch content where necessary in order to know what kind of media their children are exposing themselves to.</li></ul>

Above all else, practice good behavior—when parents responsibly utilize social media, children will imitate them.

Dr. Murthy's call to action is an awakening call not only to lawmakers but also to society. He's pushing for legislation that ensures safety standards, imposes data transparency from tech firms, and empowers parents with the knowledge to make informed choices. His analogy with the automotive industry—where seat belts, crash tests, and air bags drastically cut down on fatalities—is a reminder of what regulation can do.

Without significant action, the mental health of the next generation could continue to deteriorate under the pressure of an unchecked digital world. "It's not too late," Murthy maintains. "But Congress needs to step up and act now."

mental health

children mental health

social media regulation

vivek murthy warning

adolescent depression

congress tech policy

youth digital safety

surgeon general advisory

Imagine handing your child the keys to a car—no seatbelt, no airbags, no traffic lights—and saying, "Just go." Crazy, isn't it? That's exactly how Dr. Vivek Murthy, past U.S. Surgeon General, describes current digital world our kids are exposing themselves to every day. With increasing alarm regarding the mental health epidemic among children and adolescents, he's decrying Congress for what he perceives as a staggering failure to shield them from the unregulated and oftentimes toxic reach of social media.Dr. Vivek Murthy has openly criticized Congress for its inaction in the face of increasing evidence that social media is damaging children's mental health. Making stark comparisons with previous public safety failures, Dr. Murthy compared today's online environment to "putting our kids in cars with no seat belts," referring to it as a risky, unregulated environment where teenagers are left exposed without institutional safeguarding.This potent message arrives at a time when legislative priorities are elsewhere, with Congress occupied with President Donald Trump's sweeping megabill on immigration, defense, and health care with little attention to regulation of technology and online safety.In his recent Meet the Press interview on NBC, Dr. Murthy minced no words. "Congress has thus far neglected its obligation to safeguard our children," he asserted, citing the absence of regulatory protections for apps such as TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat—apps that dominate the online lives of American teens.Though a bill mandating TikTok's disconnection from its Chinese parent company was enacted, its implementation has been continuously postponed. The app persists in thriving, even garnering applauds from Trump for mobilizing young voters. But beneath the politics is an underlying issue: social media's psychological and emotional impact on today's youth.Rising Mental Health Issues Among TeensDr. Murthy has long been warning of the mental health crisis facing American children. In his 2023 advisory, Social Media and Youth Mental Health, he underlined that social media can be a positive force for young users but has become increasingly a driver of loneliness, anxiety, and negative self-image—particularly among teenage girls.He once again expressed this concern during June 2024, appealing to Congress to make warning labels mandatory on social media sites, similar to what is placed on cigarettes. "Parents and children need to know the dangers," Murthy said. "We're years behind where we should be in setting digital safety standards."How Social Media Affect Kids Mental Health?While long-term data is still in short supply because technology continues to change, recent studies are indicating troubling trends. A study among American teenagers between the ages of 12–15 found that spending more than three hours a day on social media doubled the chances of suffering from symptoms of depression and anxiety. The American Psychological Association (APA) has also been repeating the same, citing increased instances of body image problems, eating disorders, and sleep disruptions attributed to excessive social media usage.Moreover, unhealthy online material—everything from self-harm challenges to unrealistic beauty ideals—can fuel emotional dysregulation, particularly among susceptible young people. In 2021, a review of 50 studies across 17 nations substantiated that regular exposure to such material elevates the possibility of eating disorders and body dissatisfaction, especially among adolescent girls.Overstimulation, Addiction, and the Brain's Reward SystemDr. Murthy's advisory highlighted that repeated exposure to social media could overstimulate the reward center of the brain and trigger addictive behavior with similarities to substance use disorders. Liking, sharing, and notifications could habituate teenagers to crave digital approval to the detriment of actual relationships and offline activities.In addition, overuse of social media disturbs normal habits such as sleep, exercise, and in-person socialization. Blue light emitted by screens and psychological overstimulation of going through one's feeds late at night can lead to lack of sleep—yet another important factor associated with depression and bad mental health outcomes.Role of FOMO and Online Peer PressureOne of the most harmful trends is the Fear of Missing Out (FOMO). When adolescents witness their friends sharing updates of social activities or experiences they did not have a part in, it may leave them feeling excluded and inadequate. Social comparison is heightened by social media, and because people typically post idealized content, it is simpler to assume that others are happier or more successful.This produces a skewed view of the real world and a need to maintain a pace—"the pressure to keep up"—an emotional load many adolescents are ill-prepared to manage.What Can Parents Do?Even though legislation takes time to progress, communities and parents cannot afford to wait. Dr. Murthy advises waiting to introduce children to social media until they are in middle school at the very least. For those with young children already on platforms, he advises establishing "tech-free zones" within the home—like at the dinner table or in the hours leading up to bedtime.Furthermore, parents can take proactive action to encourage healthy digital habits:Institute regular digital detox sessions and tech-free hours.Switch off irrelevant notifications to minimize incessant participation.Discuss online activities openly, cyberbullying, and emotional health.Supervise and co-watch content where necessary in order to know what kind of media their children are exposing themselves to.Above all else, practice good behavior—when parents responsibly utilize social media, children will imitate them.Dr. Murthy's call to action is an awakening call not only to lawmakers but also to society. He's pushing for legislation that ensures safety standards, imposes data transparency from tech firms, and empowers parents with the knowledge to make informed choices. His analogy with the automotive industry—where seat belts, crash tests, and air bags drastically cut down on fatalities—is a reminder of what regulation can do.Without significant action, the mental health of the next generation could continue to deteriorate under the pressure of an unchecked digital world. "It's not too late," Murthy maintains. "But Congress needs to step up and act now."

former surgeon general calls out congress for 'failing to protect' kids’ mental health

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