Social media has become an integral part of teenagers' lives, and recent studies have highlighted its profound impact on their mental health. According to a 2023 Surgeon General advisory, nearly all teens aged 13-17 use at least one social media platform, with a third admitting to near-constant usage. The advisory also revealed that those spending three or more hours daily on such platforms face double the risk for anxiety and depression. In response, Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, is rolling out new tools to empower parents in safeguarding their children online. These measures include message limits, content filters, and parental approval for setting changes across Meta's platforms.

Meta's North American Head of Safety Policy, Jennifer Hanley, emphasized the importance of these initiatives by stating that they are actively involving teenagers nationwide in testing safety features on Facebook and Messenger. These features aim to create a safer digital environment while fostering healthy habits around technology use. Hanley, who is also a mother of two young children, expressed her personal interest in preparing her kids for responsible screen time management even before they engage with social media.

Beyond Meta's efforts, local organizations like Bark Technologies are providing solutions for concerned parents. Last summer, Bark's Chief Parenting Officer Titania Jordan addressed a common misconception among parents: believing their children are safe at home without realizing they may be interacting with strangers online. To combat this issue, Bark offers specialized resources, including a custom phone designed to give parents control over app usage, set time restrictions, and monitor online interactions.

Dawn Hurst, a parent utilizing Bark's services, shared her experience of purchasing a simplified phone for her teenager. Her daughter appreciates the balance it strikes between connectivity and protection, allowing her to communicate with friends and family without unnecessary distractions. Meanwhile, Meta has complemented its safety features with an informational website aimed at guiding parents through setting up controls tailored to their child's needs.

In Georgia, a newly enacted law seeks to enhance internet safety for minors. Effective since July, it mandates parental consent for social media accounts for those under 16 and imposes restrictions on school usage. Additionally, students must complete a course on cyberbullying as part of their curriculum. Such measures reflect a growing awareness of the challenges posed by digital technology and the necessity for comprehensive safeguards.

As society continues to grapple with the dual-edged sword of social media, collaborative efforts from tech companies, local organizations, and legislative bodies are crucial. By equipping parents with tools and knowledge, these initiatives strive to ensure that teenagers can navigate the digital world safely and responsibly, fostering both their mental well-being and technological literacy.