Our very own, Dr. Maria Rago, was quoted as an expert in the psychology and eating disorder recovery space, to get her thoughts on a recent debate around social influencers and the impact social media can have on our youths mental health.
Social Media Effect on Young People
The New York Times Article, “Who is the ‘Skinny Influencer’ Who Was Barred From TikTok?” touches on Liv Schmidt, a TikTok influencer known for her weight loss tips, and how she garnered significant attention after her account was banned for violating community guidelines regarding disordered eating. With nearly 700,000 followers, her content focused on calorie reduction and dieting, and some looked at it as aligning with past pro-anorexia nervosa trends. Despite criticism, Schmidt maintains a presence on other platforms and has a loyal fan base that defends her messages about healthy lifestyles.
The article highlights a wider conversation about body positivity and the influence of social media on young adults, particularly following the isolation experienced during the pandemic. Experts, including Dr. Maria Rago, who leads a team of therapists and dietitians at Rago & Associates and is president of ANAD, emphasize the vulnerability of young audiences to this type of content, advocating for increased scrutiny of influencers like Schmidt.
Dr. Rago brings up an interesting point as it relates to these young adults and isolation during the pandemic. She talks to the point that these influencers have a special power over many teens and young adults who spent some of their formative years in isolation during 2020-2023.
- “They’re very vulnerable to things on the internet — that was their way of connecting because of the isolation they had, and the lack of socialization….They think this girl is their best friend.”
Eating Disorders Fueled by Instagram, TikTok, and More
This case illustrates the complexities of diet culture in the age of social media and raises questions about the responsibility of content creators. Social media has an incredible way of influencing our children in positive and negative ways. Our goal at Rago & Associates is to ensure our kids and loved ones see reality for what it truly is, and do not have expectations based on what they see through a screen.
End-to-end Eating Disorder Recovery Therapists Team Up with Creative Dietitians
Rago & Associates combines the power of psychology with the importance of nutrition to help guide those who are struggling with eating disorders in a healthy, holistic, and realistic way. If you are someone you know is looking for some help on their road to recovery, we are here to guide them with a unique plan to address their specific needs.
With locations in DowntownChicago, Geneva, Naperville, Hinsdale, and New Lenox, we are able to provide personalized care throughout the Chicagoland area.
Our Incredible Team of Eating Disorder Therapists & Dietitians:
- Dr. Maria Rago
- Stephanie Ciucci
- Samantha Estes
- Lisa Hardekopf
- Lindsay Calvario
- Josie Miller
- Heather Aviles
- Eve Miceli
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