How Social Media Is Quietly Fueling Eating Disorders in Teens

by Ana Moreno, LPC, ATR-P

As a clinician who works closely with adolescents in eating disorder recovery, I’ve witnessed a significant increase in teens seeking treatment in recent years. One common thread? The long-term, often subtle impact of social media.

A global review across 17 countries found that social media use is a plausible risk factor for a more than 200 percent increase in eating disorders worldwide. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube track passive behavior—how long you linger on a reel, what you click, and what you “like”—then use that data to feed you more of the same.

For teens who are still forming their identity and self-image, this can become a quiet but powerful influence. Many are unknowingly flooded with dieting tips, body transformation stories, and “clean eating” content that shames normal eating behaviors. One study found that people with eating disorders received 334 percent more dieting content, 142 percent more fitness videos, and a staggering 4,343 percent more toxic eating disorder-related content than those without.

These algorithms are not neutral. They are designed to keep attention, even if the content is emotionally damaging.

How to Set Healthier Boundaries with Social Media

Ideally, taking a break from social media creates distance from harmful content. But if a full break doesn’t feel possible, here are small steps that can make a big difference:

• Curate your feed. Unfollow or block content creators whose posts harm your mental health.
• Use content controls. Mark posts as “not interested” or hide them to train the algorithm away from disordered content.
• Be mindful of what you like. Every “like” tells the algorithm what to send you more of. Try to engage only with content that supports your wellbeing.
• Set screen time limits. Most phones allow you to track and limit daily app usage.
• Use built-in safety tools. Explore parental controls or content filters in app settings to reduce exposure to triggering content.
  

These small acts of boundary-setting help protect not just you, but others who might come across the same content.

Final Thoughts

Working with teens and young adults in recovery has shown me just how strong and resilient this generation truly is. Despite the challenges they face, I see them take steps every day toward healing, self-compassion, and meaningful goals—whether that’s becoming doctors, artists, researchers, or mental health advocates themselves.

Recovery can feel long and overwhelming at times. But the most powerful progress often comes from quiet, steady moments—choosing to put one foot in front of the other and turning inward with care. With time, patience, and support, peace is possible. And it is so worth it.

InnerVoice Psychotherapy and Consultation is located in Chicago, IL and Skokie, IL and provides in person and telehealth services for anyone living in the state of IL.

Book with Ana here.