Chicago Tribune

Editorial: Social media’s grip on American teens is a big problem. Dr. Vivek Murthy has smart answers

U.S. Surgeon General Vivek H. Murthy tours King/Drew Magnet High School of Medicine and Science in Los Angeles, California on Dec. 6, 2021, before talking to a panel of students about mental health issues.

The age of “screenagers” has been upon us for some time now. Parents of teens know it well.

How many times, Mom and Dad, have you smoldered at the sight of your adolescent mesmerized by their smartphone at the dinner table, or at a restaurant, or during a visit to Grandma and Grandpa’s place? You can admonish them with quips such as “Your brain is melting!” but you’ll likely get a huffy grunt or a long dose of side-eye.

Well, Mom and Dad, there’s someone out there who feels your pain. U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy.

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