Quick answer
Yes, families are suing social media companies when a child developed depression or severe anxiety after heavy use before 18. The U.S. Surgeon General and the American Psychological Association have both raised concerns about social media and teen mental health. A diagnosis helps but is not required to start.
What the research and the lawsuits say
The U.S. Surgeon General’s 2023 advisory and the American Psychological Association’s 2023 health advisory both raised concerns about how social media affects adolescents’ mental health, including sleep, mood and self-image.
The lawsuits allege the companies designed their apps to maximize use despite those risks. The companies deny the claims.
Who may qualify
- Social media use that began before 18
- Depression, severe anxiety, panic attacks or related conditions
- Treatment by a doctor, therapist or counselor helps, but is not required to start
- Heavy use of 20 or more hours a week on one platform may support an exposure claim
Not a class action
This is not a class action. Every child’s case is filed in the child’s name, valued on the child’s own facts, and never settled without the family’s written agreement.
Common questions
Does my child need a diagnosis to qualify?
Not necessarily. A diagnosis helps, but the lawyers review every family’s situation. If your child spent 20 or more hours a week on one platform before 18, they can pursue an exposure claim even without medical records.
Is this a class action?
No. Each child’s case is handled individually: filed in the child’s name, valued on the child’s own facts, and never settled without the family’s written agreement.
Does it cost anything to have my case reviewed?
No. The case check is free and confidential. If you hire the firm, the lawyers are paid only from a recovery under a written contingency fee agreement. No recovery, no attorney fee.
Is there a deadline to file?
Yes. Every state sets its own deadline, and the rules for minors vary. Some families are already up against the clock, so it is best to ask early.
Sources: U.S. Surgeon General, Social Media and Youth Mental Health advisory (2023); American Psychological Association, Health Advisory on Social Media Use in Adolescence (2023); U.S. District Court, N.D. Cal., MDL 3047 order on motions to dismiss (Nov 14, 2023). Attorney advertising by Grove and Associates PLC; responsible attorney Justin Grove. Results in other cases don’t predict the outcome of yours. This page is general information, not legal or medical advice.