Social media is increasing mental illness within adolescents, but we already knew this. The correlation between social media and suicide rates has been researched, explained, analyzed and echoed in response to every adult asking the same question: why is Generation Z so sad? 

A recent New York Times article by Vivek Murthy, surgeon general of the Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, called for required warning labels on social media platforms considering their potentially detrimental mental health impacts. Given the evidence supporting the relationship between teen mental illness and social media, it seems simple to prescribe less time on screens as a catch-all bandaid for the adolescent mental illness epidemic. It seems simple because it is, and too much so. While social media is undoubtedly a catalyst, declining teen mental health is an issue rooted in far more than social media. Even those without diagnosed mental health issues inevitably experience anxiety and depression symptoms. According to a KFF analysis of a recent federal survey of teen health, about one in five teens experience mental illness symptoms. We all need more than a decrease in screen time–we all need therapy. 

Adolescence is a pivotal period of growth as we learn to develop our individuality and make decisions as to what we want to do after high school. It’s ripe with opportunities to pursue personal interests, deepen relationships and push ourselves. 

Being in therapy as an adolescent ensures that we can approach high school with vivacity, confident in our ability to maintain passions and work ethics strong enough to counteract the stress induced by teen years. 

“Regular therapy sessions can be valuable in improving self-esteem, self-confidence, self-awareness, social skills, coping skills and problem-solving and decision-making in teens,” Madison school psychologist, Dane Charneco, said. “Most teens enjoy the validation and support they receive in therapy as a good therapist provides a safe and non-judgmental space for adolescents to express themselves and feel heard.” 

However, stigma surrounding mental health treatment in adolescence can often act as a deterrent, for fear that therapy signifies weakness. 

“Sometimes I feel like the idea of going to therapy is hard to talk about,” Sarah Biddick (’25) said. “I think some people feel a little uncomfortable and embarrassed, even though there’s nothing to feel bad about.”

Still, a large part of growth in adolescence is learning to overcome judgment and pursuing things out of a personal conviction despite how others may perceive them. Acquiring mental health treatment as a teenager is a sign of strength rather than weakness, a step towards greater self-improvement than we can achieve on our own. 

“Therapy provides a structured and supportive environment where teens can process and better understand their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors,” Charneco said. “This helps adolescents improve their insight and manage their emotions effectively as well as improving their coping, problem-solving, and communication skills. It also serves to improve teens’ happiness, motivation, and self-image.”

According to an article published by the American Psychological Association, psychotherapy limits the necessity for health services in the long term. Being in therapy as a teen increases chances of being a healthier and better adjusted adult. The article also emphasized that psychotherapy teaches life skills that remain with patients past the duration of the treatment. Even mentally healthy teens can’t escape the distress that accompanies classes, extracurriculars and social media. The simple act of talking through daily life can be impactful in developing the strength to combat stress and the impending threat of mental illness looming over our heads. 

“My therapist gives me an unbiased perspective,” Caitlin Schweers (’25) said. “It’s good for gaining skills to be successful in school, relationships and just life.”