Story perspectives

Instagram and YouTube Linked to Youth Depression, Testimony Reveals

2/27/2026

Summary

Story summary

K.G.M., 20, testified in a Los Angeles trial that childhood use of Instagram and YouTube led to depression and dysmorphia.
She began using the platforms at ages six and nine, describing how infinite scrolling distorted her self-image.
Her former therapist, Victoria Burke, said social media contributed to her struggles but was not the sole cause.

History

Historical Context

Since its launch in 2010, Instagram rapidly gained over 1 million users, significantly influencing youth culture. Research indicates that excessive social media use correlates with increased depressive symptoms among adolescents, with studies showing that 30% report such issues. This trend raises concerns about platforms exacerbating self-image problems, highlighting the urgent need for regulatory measures to protect vulnerable young users from harmful online environments.

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Story summary

K.G.M., 20, testified in a Los Angeles trial that childhood use of Instagram and YouTube led to depression and dysmorphia.
She began using the platforms at ages six and nine, describing how infinite scrolling distorted her self-image.
Her former therapist, Victoria Burke, said social media contributed to her struggles but was not the sole cause.

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