America’s Top Doctor on Why He Wants Warning Labels on Social Media

Warning: This episode contains mentions of bullying and
suicide.


A rising tide of mental health problems among teenagers has sent
parents, teachers and doctors searching for answers. This week,
the U.S. surgeon general, Dr. Vivek H. Murthy, offered one:
social media.


Today, Dr. Murthy discusses his proposal to require platforms
such as YouTube, TikTok and Instagram to include warning labels,
like those that appear on tobacco and alcohol products.


Guest: Dr. Vivek H. Murthy, the U.S. surgeon general.

Background reading: 


Dr. Murthy cannot unilaterally impose warnings on social
media; the action requires approval by Congress. Dr. Murthy said
he would urge Congress to require a warning that social media use
can harm teenagers’ mental health.

Read a guest essay by Dr. Murthy: Why I’m Calling for a
Warning Label on Social Media Platforms.



For more information on today’s episode, visit
nytimes.com/thedaily. Transcripts of each episode will be made
available by the next workday.