From filters and likes to endless scrolling, the platforms we use shape how we see ourselves, what we value, and the choices we make. Drawing from real conversations with young people in India, this blog explores how social media influences identity, mental health, and behavior. Read the blog to better understand what growing up online feels like for young people today, and how we can create a healthier balance with the digital world that prioritizes young people’s well-being.

Social media can be a great way to connect with friends and stay in the know, but it’s important to use it mindfully. In this blog, Addya, a #GoodforMEdia Youth Leader, shares her journey on Instagram, from enjoying uplifting content and staying connected to experiencing the creeping stress of comparisons and doomscrolling. Learn how Addya is finding balance for her mental health while staying connected.

How often do you pause to reflect on your scrolling habits? Now's your chance! Check out Naiya’s tips for prioritizing her mental health while using social media and technology.

In this blog post, Lukas describes the problematic portrayal of masculinity on social media, particularly within fitness culture. Lukas walks us through the standards posed on young men and the solutions he and his peers have developed in order to combat this. Read more here.

Hear what Sonia has to say— tune in for her response to the question of social media use being viewed as a moral failure. She breaks down how platform features impact youth and what we can do about it.

In this piece, Ishani shares about the reality of scrolling through your timeline and feeling the natural urge to compare ourselves to the folks we see on our feeds, in the media, etc. Read more here.

Leading up to the White House Kids Online Safety Listening Session, we asked youth in the community to share their ideas for change. Here is what they said.

There’s nothing sweet about FOMO, especially when your feed is full of Valentine’s Day highlights. If scrolling has you feeling left out, GoodforMEdia Youth Leader Zenia shares simple ways to overcome FOMO and focus on self-love this Valentine’s Day (and beyond).

October 5, 2021: We were featured in The New York Times

How social media can amplify negative thoughts by creating unrealistic expectations

Hear about how Jamie would have used social media differently to focus on the things that really matter

This is something that I would tell my younger self …