New York City Mayor Eric Adams has officially labeled social media as an “environmental toxin” and a “public health hazard,” likening it to tobacco and guns. The advisory singles out platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook, holding them responsible for the surging rates of teen depression. City officials are urging parents to establish “tech-free times” for children and advising teens to limit notifications and monitor their emotions online. The move aligns with a broader concern about the detrimental impact of social media on children’s mental health, prompting legal actions against Meta, the parent company of Facebook.