Opinion | Could social media warning labels help protect Hong Kong youth?

In an era where online interactions have become the norm alongside face-to-face conversations, a recent proposal by US Surgeon General Dr Vivek Murthy for cautionary labels on social media platforms is a resounding call to action. The push sends an important message that we in Hong Kong and others must acknowledge.

Social media is no longer just a playground for teenagers. It has become a central aspect of their social lives, and we see this trend in our city. Adolescents engage with social media daily, and this high level of involvement can lead to an increase in social isolation, anxiety, depression and other mental health issues.

Murthy’s comparison between the risks posed by social media and those associated with tobacco is especially striking. It should resonate strongly within our community, which has a history of taking proactive public health steps like initiatives to help people quit smoking. However, how it is carried out and what meaningful alternatives are provided must also be considered.

Should Hong Kong consider implementing warning labels on social media platforms, and what other steps should we take to protect young people? Adding labels could be a starting point to raise public awareness. They would act as a reminder of the dangers, encouraging parents and carers to have important conversations with their children about safety and mental well-being.

For starters, it is essential that we include media literacy in our education system. Young people need to learn how to use technology and develop critical-thinking skills. This includes understanding the strategies employed by platforms such as infinite scrolling and personalised algorithms that can alter people’s behaviour.