Surgeon General’s Warning

A warning label for consumers joining pregnancy, alcohol, and cigarettes

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Not since the 1960s when C. Everett Koop placed the first warning labels on tobacco, do I recall a Surgeon General taking such a public stand in the name of health and wellness. When something is worthy of the Surgeon General’s warning, it give us reasonable support in setting limits around social media - even in the face of pushback (and especially in the context of a close, connected, relationship). 

A Surgeon General’s warnings are “public statements that call the American people's attention to a critical public health issue and provide recommendations for how it should be addressed. Advisories are reserved for significant public health challenges that need the American people's immediate attention.” In today’s news, Dr. Vivek Murthy is calling on Congress to assist in a warning label on social media platforms.

“Why is it that we have failed to respond to the harms of social media when they are no less urgent or widespread than those posed by unsafe cars, planes or food? These harms are not a failure of willpower and parenting; they are the consequence of unleashing powerful technology without adequate safety measures, transparency or accountability.” Dr. Vivek Murthy

I had the chance to talk with Dr. Murthy earlier this month, and I am beyond grateful for the care and attention he has shown for our children, for parents, and for future generations.

How might I use this to start a conversation with a tween or teen? “Hey, this is a big warning from the Surgeon General, which means I’m going to be paying attention to it. My job is to pay attention to what matters for your health and development and to make decisions accordingly. I know this might feel super annoying, but I want to reevaluate screen use with you.” Remember, we can always reevaluate our rules around screens, and it is never too late. Our influence as parents matters, even when we feel overwhelmed by the world around us.

A quick reminder to buy my first book, The Five Principles of Parenting, and write a review from wherever you order. Reviews really help to get the book noticed, and to spread the word. Please especially rate and review any books purchased on Amazon (it shockingly really, really matters!). Also, when you receive the book, snap a quick pic with it and post on social media. Share one thing you love about it and help me to get more copies into the hands of parents in your community. Tell a friend about the book, or about something you found helpful in the book. Parents look to each other for advice, and I’d love to be a part of the support you pass on to your loved ones.