Download Breaking the Algorithm (PDF)
Mental Health America’s latest report, Breaking the Algorithm: Redesigning social media for youth well-being, dives deep into how social media is impacting young people’s mental health, relationships, and daily lives.
Born from the Breaking the Algorithm summit and research project, this initiative was led and co-created by young people every step of the way. From designing the research questions to conducting surveys and focus groups, to analyzing and synthesizing our final findings, youth voices were at the center of this work.
What You’ll Find in the Report:
This report brings together insights from over 900 survey respondents, focus groups with young people, and conversations with our youth co-researchers to explore:
- The dual nature of social media as both a connector and a source of harm.
- How algorithms shape youth experiences, often without their full understanding or consent.
- Why it’s critical to empower young people with tools, education, and a voice in the systems that shape their digital worlds.
The project was made possible thanks to the support of Kenvue Inc.
