Story perspectives

Teen Suicide Sparks Debate on Social Media's Harmful Impact

3/19/2026

Summary

Story summary

Victoria Hinks blames social media for her daughter Alexandra's 2024 suicide at age 16, citing harmful beauty standards and normalization of depression.
Hallie Zilberman, a junior from Aspen, Colorado, surveyed 1,084 teenage girls, finding that 60% feel overwhelmed and nearly 49% have considered self-harm.
Zilberman emphasizes hidden struggles and warns parents about mental health risks.
Young people create apps to limit screen time, and unplugging from social media improves well-being.

1 of 1

Story summary

Victoria Hinks blames social media for her daughter Alexandra's 2024 suicide at age 16, citing harmful beauty standards and normalization of depression.
Hallie Zilberman, a junior from Aspen, Colorado, surveyed 1,084 teenage girls, finding that 60% feel overwhelmed and nearly 49% have considered self-harm.
Zilberman emphasizes hidden struggles and warns parents about mental health risks.
Young people create apps to limit screen time, and unplugging from social media improves well-being.