Social Media and Drugs: What Parents Need to Know

Social media has not only accelerated  teens’ exposure to adult content but also increased access to recreational, illicit, and potentially deadly drugs. How are youth finding information and purchasing drugs via social media, and what are the impacts?  What is the dark web and what is its role in youth drug use and drug trafficking?  What can parents and policymakers do to protect children from harm?

Children and Screens held the #AskTheExperts webinar “Social Media, Drugs, and Youth: What Parents Need to Know” on Wednesday, February 15, 2023 at 12pm ET via Zoom. A panel of clinicians, public health experts, drug intelligence officers, and child safety advocates provided a glimpse into the world of teens and drugs on social media, and shared practical information and advice for parents and caregivers to increase their awareness and ability to safeguard their adolescents and teens.