Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh, in partnership with Columbia University, are conducting this study (Project IMPACTS) to better understand how social media use relates to stress and mental health in teens. Findings may help improve support for young people who experience depression or anxiety.

You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Ages 14–18
• Experience depression or anxiety
• Regularly use social media (post at least weekly, or log on daily)
• You and your parent/guardian are fluent in English
• Willing to share your social media data (e.g., posts, likes, comments) as part of the study

No human will see the raw social media data, as it is securely processed and de-identified before anyone can access it.

• A parent and teen complete an initial interview to see if the teen is eligible.

• If eligible, the teen completes interviews and questionnaires about emotions, stress, and mental health.

• Hair samples and simple body measurements like height and weight are collected to study stress hormones.

• The teen can choose to complete an optional brain scan using MRI while doing simple computer tasks.

• The teen shares social media data from the past year and again at six months.

• Follow-up visits happen at 2, 4, and 6 months to repeat some activities.

• All visits can be done virtually or in person, except for the MRI and optional blood or saliva samples, which are in person.

• All information is kept private and used only for research.

Teens can earn compensation for each part of the study, with the opportunity to earn up to $840 total for completing all required and optional activities. Payments vary by visit and by which optional parts are completed, such as the MRI or blood and saliva samples.

For in-person visits, snacks and beverages are provided, and parking is reimbursed up to $10.

There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.