We all know that too much social media can be damaging in a variety of ways. It is especially alarming, however, to learn about the effects social media has on body image and eating disorders.

Last week, I wrote about Eating Disorder Awareness Month, which takes place every February. Even though the month has come to an end, the issue is so important that more information needs to be shared.

According to a press release from the American Psychological Association last year, teens and young adults who reduced social media use by 50% for just a few short weeks experienced significant improvement in how they felt about both their weight and their overall appearance, compared with peers who maintained consistent levels of social media use.

“Social media can expose users to hundreds or even thousands of images and photos every day, including those of celebrities and fashion or fitness models,” the press release reads. Those photos — and even photos of our friends and neighbors — are often edited and are not realistic representations, but young teens may not realize this.

A recent social media post by Center for Change, a local treatment center for eating disorders, reads, “Research shows 62% of teens use Instagram, and 67% are on TikTok.” The post goes on to describe that there are more than 1,000 weight loss hashtags under hashtags related to body image and weight loss on TikTok.

Interestingly, a content analysis of weight loss advertising found that about 40% of all advertising for weight loss products made use of false, unsubstantiated claims, and 93% contained at least one deceptive statement, according to the National Eating Disorders Association.

“Of American elementary school girls who read magazines, 69% say that the pictures influence their concept of the ideal body shape. 47% say the pictures make them want to lose weight,” it states on the site.

Social media can be even more damaging because it allows users to post their own content and get feedback. “Studies have found that social media use, particularly engaging with appearance-focused content that idealizes thin bodies, taking selfies and viewing and/or comparing oneself to images of celebrities, peers or family increase body dissatisfaction and can lead to disordered eating among both females and males,” it states.

Even more disturbing than the effects edited photos and comparison has on people is the fact that there are social media influencers who post tips for getting and hiding eating disorders — another reason why we, as parents, need to be vigilant about talking to our kids about these issues.

There are ways to report posts that promote unhealthy weight loss or other eating disorder behaviors. For example, on Facebook and Instagram, simply tap “Report Post.” Some options will come up, and one of these is “Eating Disorders.”

If you or someone you know is in need of help or support, call the National Alliance for Eating Disorders helpline at 866-662-1235 or text 741-741, or visit AllianceforEatingDisorders.com, anad.org and nationaleatingdisorders.org.

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