Not Every Viral Trend Is Harmless: The Hidden Health Dangers of Social Media Trends in Young People

When Likes Become Risks

"Everyone else is doing it!" It is a phrase parents have heard for generations. But today, that influence doesn't come from the playground—it comes from a smartphone.

Social media has become an integral part of childhood and adolescence. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, and YouTube can inspire creativity, teach new skills, and help young people connect with friends. Unfortunately, they can also encourage dangerous trends that spread around the world in a matter of hours.

Many viral challenges may seem harmless at first glance, but some can have devastating consequences for children's physical and mental health.

Why Are Young People So Easily Influenced?

The teenage brain is still developing, particularly the areas responsible for judgment, impulse control, and assessing risk. At the same time, adolescents have a powerful desire to fit in and gain social approval.

When a video receives millions of views and thousands of comments, it can create the illusion that a risky behavior is normal or even expected. The promise of likes, followers, and online recognition can sometimes outweigh common sense.

Some Dangerous Trends That Have Caused Harm

While trends change rapidly, several types of challenges have repeatedly resulted in emergency department visits.

Choking and Breath-Holding Challenges

Challenges that involve restricting oxygen to the brain can cause:

• Loss of consciousness

• Brain injury

• Seizures

• Cardiac arrest

• Death

Even brief periods without oxygen can permanently damage the brain.

Medication Challenges

Some viral trends encourage young people to take excessive amounts of over-the-counter or prescription medications. Recent examples include the "Benadryl challenge", which sadly has been reported to have caused deaths in some young people.

Possible consequences of medication challenges include:

• Liver damage

• Kidney failure

• Irregular heart rhythms

• Seizures

• Hallucinations

• Poisoning requiring intensive care support

No medication should ever be taken simply because it is trending online.

Extreme Exercise Challenges

While physical activity is healthy, some viral fitness trends promote excessive exercise or unsafe techniques that can result in:

• Muscle breakdown

• Dehydration

• Heat illness

• Fractures

• Joint injuries

Young people should exercise safely and according to their age and fitness level.

Dangerous Food and Diet Trends

Social media can promote:

• Extreme fasting

• Detoxes

• Restrictive diets

• Excessive protein intake

• Large quantities of energy drinks

  
  

But these practices can lead to:

• Nutritional deficiencies

• Poor growth

• Eating disorders

• Heart rhythm disturbances

• Anxiety around food

Growing bodies need healthy balanced nutrition—not internet fads.

Cosmetic and DIY Beauty Hacks

Homemade skincare treatments and beauty procedures have become increasingly popular online.

These may cause:

• Burns

• Allergic reactions

• Skin infections

• Permanent scarring

• Eye injuries

Just because an influencer recommends a product doesn't mean it is safe.

The Mental Health Impact

Not all harmful trends involve physical injury.

Many online trends encourage unhealthy comparisons about appearance, popularity, or lifestyle. Constant exposure can contribute to:

• Low self-esteem

• Anxiety

• Depression

• Body dissatisfaction

• Poor sleep

• Social withdrawal

Children may also feel pressured to participate in trends simply to avoid being left out.

Warning Signs Parents Should Watch For

Be alert if your child:

• Suddenly becomes secretive about their phone.

• Has unexplained bruises or injuries.

• Talks about "viral challenges."

• Requests unusual household items without explanation.

• Begins restricting food or exercising excessively.

• Shows sudden mood changes after using social media.

• Appears anxious about likes, followers, or online comments.

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How Parents Can Help::

Keep Communication Open

Create a home where children feel safe discussing what they see online without fear of punishment or embarrassment.

Instead of asking: "Are you doing dangerous challenges?", try asking: "What's the latest trend everyone at school is talking about?"

Curiosity often opens more doors than criticism.

Teach Critical Thinking

Help children ask themselves:

• Who created this video?

• Is this person qualified?

• Could someone get hurt?

• Would I do this if nobody was watching?

• Is it worth risking my health for a few seconds of attention?

These simple questions build lifelong digital resilience.

Set Healthy Digital Boundaries

Consider:

• Screen-free family meals

• No phones before bedtime

• Device-free bedrooms overnight

• Regular family activities away from screens

Healthy habits begin at home.

Be a Positive Role Model

Children notice how adults use technology. Limiting your own screen time and avoiding constant scrolling sends a powerful message.

When Should You Seek Medical Care?

Seek immediate medical attention if your child has participated in a dangerous challenge and develops:

• Difficulty breathing

• Loss of consciousness

• Seizures

• Severe burns

• Poisoning or medication overdose

• Chest pain

• Persistent vomiting

• Serious injuries

If you suspect your child has taken medication or another substance as part of a challenge, contact your local poison center or seek emergency medical care immediately—even if they seem well.

The Bottom Line

Most young people use social media responsibly, and not every trend is dangerous. However, today's viral challenges can spread faster than ever before, making it essential for parents to stay informed.

The most effective protection is building trust, encouraging open conversations, and teaching children to think critically about what they see online. If you're concerned or need help, do speak to your child's doctor.

Remember: Not everything that goes viral is worth trying. Sometimes the bravest choice a child can make is simply saying, "No thanks."

Be well,

Paula

Dr  Paula Robertson is a busy mom and a paediatrician with over twenty years' experience working with young people and their families. She is also a certified children's mindfulness teacher and Positive Discipline Parenting

coach. You can find out more at www.paulathedoctormom.com.