Alfredo Meza Covarrubias and Pedro Vargas warn on social‑media impact and depression treatment

Alfredo Meza Covarrubias, coordinator of the Psychology degree at the Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí, said that the rise of smartphones and social‑media platforms has been linked to increased anxiety, depression and other emotional disorders among children and adolescents. He highlighted how algorithm‑driven content fuels constant comparison, unrealistic expectations and fear of missing out, which can erode mental well‑being. Meza Covarrubias urged mindful use of these platforms and recommended the book “La generación ansiosa” for further insight.

Pedro Vargas, coordinator of Educational Outreach at the Centro de Atención al Adolescente, warned that patients with depression often isolate themselves and may abandon therapy prematurely. He stressed the importance of continued professional support from psychologists and psychiatrists, noting that combined treatment improves mood, motivation and daily functioning. Vargas also called for families to avoid stigmatizing language and to respect patients, emphasizing that recovery requires perseverance and consistent medication when prescribed.