Episode 20: Are We Addicted To Social Media?

In this episode, we dig into the question of whether social media can be addictive—and why this conversation is accelerating now. We start with a recent landmark legal case that put platform design features under the microscope, then zoom out to explore what “addiction” means in medicine and why behavioral addictions matter. We also share a candid moment where we put ourselves through a validated questionnaire and reflect on what it brings up for us as doctors and humans. From brain research to real-life “why can’t I stop?” experiences, we review what the evidence suggests, where it’s still messy, and why abstinence isn’t always the realistic answer. We end with practical, research-informed strategies and ways we can talk about this with patients and families.00:00 Podcast mission intro01:14 Social media trial sparks06:19 Why this moment now12:05 Defining addiction criteria15:12 Social media addiction quiz17:53 Behavioral addiction debate23:57 Brain changes evidence34:16 Harms and health impacts38:07 Benefits and U Curve40:05 Moderate Use and Connection41:05 Platform Differences Matter43:07 Withdrawal Abstinence Evidence44:54 Tolerance and Slippery Slope47:11 What Doctors Should Conclude51:36 Talking With Patients52:30 Interventions That Work56:16 Digital Literacy and Regulation01:00:00 Digital Detox Day Dream01:05:53 Opt In Design and Nextdoor01:07:02 Wrap Up and DisclaimerTo receive professional continuing education credits for listening to our episodes- visit www.theantidocialdoctors.com to subscribe. You will receive an email with each new episode including a link to the episode, a written summary, and a link to claim your CME/CEs.📖 Read the full episode summary, sources, and resources on our Substack: 👉www.theantisocialdoctors.com