Virginia bill restricts teen social media usage to 1 hour per day, requiring parental consent to adjust time limit
Taking a step in that direction, Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin has signed a bill aimed at restricting how much time children can spend on these platforms.
ALSO READ: Screens and teens: Loneliness to obsessive thoughts, how screen addiction affects their mental health
As per the Fox 5 report, the bill is an amendment to the Consumer Data Protection Act that limits minors under 16 to only one hour of social media usage per day on each platform. The time cap is strictly controlled, restricting social media usage for teenagers to just one hour. Parents can monitor social media usage, as only with their consent can the screen time limit be reduced or increased.
The amendment also sets a rule for social media platforms to ask for the user's age in a neutral way, that is, without nudging them toward giving a particular answer. Moreover any data to be used only for age verification.
Previously, a Feb 2025 study, published in Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology, revealed how serious mental health conditions are associated with long hours of social media consumption among teenagers. It is quite alarming, as with widespread social media usage, concerning behavioural issues have been seen, such as increased manic symptoms, problematic screen use, and sleep disturbances.
Dr. Jason Nagata, a paediatrician at UCSF Benioff Children's Hospitals and the lead author of the study, said, 'Policymakers need to look at TikTok as a systemic social media issue and create effective measures that protect children online."
ALSO READ: Children glued to screens? Expert shares a detailed guide for parents to encourage healthy tech habits
Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Indian Express
11 hours ago
- Indian Express
‘Fridge cigarette' is Gen Z's new stress ritual
Gen Z has found a new way to hit pause on a stressful moment — and no, it doesn't involve nicotine. Introducing the 'fridge cigarette' trend, a TikTok-coined ritual that consists of opening the fridge, grabbing a cold Diet Coke (or any fizzy drink), cracking it open, and sipping it with the same satisfaction once reserved for a cigarette break. No smoke, no guilt — just bubbles and a mental reset. The trend has taken off this summer with clips captioned 'how refreshing — my fridge cigarette' or 'overheard someone call a Diet Coke a 'fridge cigarette' and nothing's been more true to me since.' While some users see it as a harmless coping mechanism, others are questioning the potential health and behavioural implications of this new comfort ritual. Neha Cadabam, senior psychologist and executive director at Cadabams Hospitals, tells 'Yes, the 'fridge cigarette' trend can be viewed as an emotional coping mechanism, particularly among young people navigating stress, burnout, or emotional fatigue. While the term itself may sound humorous or harmless, it reflects a growing pattern of relying on quick comfort habits to self-soothe. Reaching for a cold, fizzy drink can offer a brief sense of control, pleasure, or distraction in a fast-paced or overstimulating environment.' This behaviour becomes concerning when it begins to replace more sustainable coping strategies such as rest, conversation, physical activity, or emotional expression. Over time, emotional reliance on artificially sweetened or sugary drinks might build into a habit loop, where the brain begins to associate stress relief solely with that specific ritual. While not inherently harmful in moderation, it may mask underlying stressors that require deeper attention. Such rituals are comforting because they are simple, accessible, and familiar. 'In the case of the 'fridge cigarette,' the appeal lies in the anticipation and repetition, much like how traditional smoke breaks were once used to create space and relief in daily routines. However, when these rituals are tied primarily to emotional regulation, they may lead to dependency, especially if healthier coping mechanisms are not in place,' states Cadabam. From a psychological standpoint, Cadabam mentions that relying on artificially sweetened drinks to manage emotions 'may discourage the development of more adaptive coping skills. It may also create a cycle of emotional dependence, where the absence of the drink leads to increased irritability or discomfort.' Physically, while diet sodas are marketed as low calorie or sugar-free, 'studies suggest that their artificial sweeteners can still influence metabolism, appetite regulation, and gut health. Some research also links excessive intake to mood fluctuations and increased cravings for sweet or processed foods,' says Cadabam. 'The key is not to eliminate occasional enjoyment but to recognise when the habit is being driven by emotional needs rather than genuine thirst or preference. Helping young people become more aware of these patterns and encouraging balance, variety, and intentionality in their routines can foster healthier long-term habits,' concludes the expert. DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
NDTV
16 hours ago
- NDTV
What Is Ozempic Vulva, The Lesser-Known Side Effect Of Weight Loss Drugs
Ozempic is everywhere right now. From Hollywood celebrities to TikTok influencers, more and more people are using it to shed kilos fast. Originally made to manage Type 2 diabetes, the drug has now become one of the most talked-about weight loss injections. But this weight loss drug might come with various side effects. First, people started talking about 'Ozempic face', 'Ozempic hands', and even 'Ozempic butt.' Now, there is a new phrase making the rounds online: Ozempic vulva. Yes, you read it right. What Exactly Is Ozempic Vulva? Ozempic vulva is not a medical condition. As per a report by The Times of India, it is a nickname some women are using to describe changes they have noticed in their genital area after taking Ozempic or other GLP-1 drugs such as Wegovy or Mounjaro. These changes are not written on the drug's label, but they are showing up in real experiences shared online. Why Does It Happen? Rapid weight loss affects more than just your waistline. Here are a few reasons experts say Ozempic vulva may happen: Quick fat loss: The body does not get enough time to adjust. This can leave the labia and pubic mound looking less full. Muscle loss: These drugs can reduce muscle mass, even in the pelvic floor. That may cause weakness or less tone in the vaginal area. Hormone shifts: Less body fat means less estrogen. Estrogen helps with moisture and tissue health. A drop can cause dryness and discomfort. Hydration issues: Side effects like nausea or diarrhoea can lead to dehydration, making vaginal dryness worse. Microbiome changes: GLP-1 drugs slow down digestion. This may disrupt gut bacteria, which can also affect vaginal health. What Are Women Complaining About? The most common issues linked to Ozempic vulva include: Sagging or aged look – the outer labia may appear deflated or wrinkled. Pelvic weakness – women may feel a lack of support or tightness. Dryness and irritation – linked to hormone and hydration changes. Some also notice changes in discharge, odour, or more frequent infections. Take Paige Osprey, 30, who shared her story with The Sun. After losing nearly 19 kg with injections, she said her labia looked saggy and even created a 'cameltoe' effect in tight clothes. She decided to try a labia puffing treatment with filler, which restored volume and gave her confidence back. What Can You Do If It Happens? If you notice similar changes, doctors suggest a few simple steps: Stay well hydrated. Add pelvic floor exercises to your routine. Slow down weight loss so your body adjusts better. Use lubricants or moisturisers if dryness is a problem. Talk to your doctor about treatments. Cosmetic options like labia puffing, fat grafts, or labiaplasty exist, but they should be carefully considered. Ozempic has no doubt changed the weight loss game. But as more women share their experiences, it is clear the conversation is not just about dropping kilos – it is also about understanding the unexpected changes that come with it.
Time of India
20 hours ago
- Time of India
Can avocado pit (seed) reduce chronic joint pain?
We've all seen avocado trending on social media, smashed on sourdough, blended into smoothies, or turned into face masks. But lately, the spotlight isn't just on that creamy green goodness. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Nope, it's on the part most of us toss straight into the bin: the pit (aka the seed). Yes, you read that right. That giant hard ball in the middle of your avocado might actually pack some serious health potential, especially when it comes to inflammation and chronic pain. Researchers and even a few DIY wellness fans on TikTok are buzzing about it. Let's break it down. What the science is saying Researchers at have been digging into this overlooked super-seed and found something pretty exciting. In lab studies, extracts from avocado pits were shown to inhibit pro-inflammatory proteins produced by immune cells. And here's the kicker—they did this at really low concentrations, which is promising for future use. Translation? The compounds in avocado seeds might help calm inflammation, which is at the root of conditions like arthritis, cardiovascular disease, and even ulcerative colitis. If inflammation is dialed down, it could also mean less pain for people dealing with chronic inflammatory issues. Why the pit packs a punch Avocado pulp gets all the love, but the seed is actually richer in polyphenols and antioxidants—two compounds known for fighting inflammation and oxidative stress in the body. Think of them as the body's little clean-up crew, swooping in to calm the fire of inflammation. What's wild is that some cultures have been using avocado pits for ages as natural remedies for inflammation. Science is just now catching up to what grandma might've already known. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Home remedies and TikTok hacks Beyond the lab, people have been experimenting at home with avocado pits. One old-school method? Soaking the pit in alcohol to make a topical rub for sore muscles and joints. It's kind of like a DIY liniment—people swear it eases stiffness and pain thanks to the anti-inflammatory compounds. And yes, social media has its fair share of adventurous avocado pit experiments—teas, powders, tinctures—but a word of caution here: the research is still pretty new, and safety for regular human use hasn't been nailed down yet. So maybe don't start blending up avocado seeds for breakfast smoothies just yet. The catch (Because there's always one) As exciting as all this sounds, it's important to be real: most of the evidence we have so far comes from lab studies or animal models. Human trials are very limited. That means while avocado pits are promising in theory, we don't yet know for sure if they'll work as well in real-world human bodies. So, before anyone declares avocado pits the next turmeric or CBD, more research needs to happen. Avocado pits might just be the underdog of the superfood world—loaded with antioxidants and showing legit anti-inflammatory potential. The science is young but encouraging, and it could pave the way for new natural approaches to managing chronic inflammation and pain. For now, though, think of avocado pit remedies as an interesting trend to watch—not a replacement for actual medical advice or treatment. In the meantime, keep enjoying your avocado toast, but maybe don't feel too bad about that pit you're tossing—it could be the star of future wellness headlines.
