Dr. Vivek Murthy, the U.S. Surgeon General, has highlighted the mental health impacts of gun violence, revealing that half of U.S. teenagers express concern about school shootings.

In June 2024, Murthy declared gun violence a public health crisis, particularly emphasizing its alarming rise among children.

Gun injuries have now become the leading cause of death for U.S. children, surpassing car accidents and cancer, which has prompted Murthy to advocate for stricter gun control measures.

His recommendations for addressing this crisis include universal background checks and restrictions on large-capacity magazines.

Murthy has also criticized tech companies for their role in the decline of children's mental health, calling for warning labels on social media platforms.

His advisory on social media use among children has highlighted significant mental health harms associated with its use.

Studies show that up to 95% of youth aged 13-17 use social media, with many using it almost constantly, which raises concerns about its impact on mental health.

Adolescents spending more than three hours daily on social media are at double the risk for anxiety and depression symptoms.

Murthy has noted that loneliness is linked to a 30% increased risk of premature death, and healthcare professionals are witnessing its effects firsthand.

After his term ends in March, Murthy plans to continue advocating for mental health and addressing loneliness.

Throughout his second term, Murthy has focused on mental health and loneliness, marking a departure from previous Surgeon Generals' emphasis on physical health.