"We have to acknowledge the harm," notes Dr. Richards. "For every empowering article about career goals, there were five ads implying your skin wasn't clear enough or your body wasn't thin enough. It was a double-edged sword: validation mixed with insecurity."

The evolution of these media spaces deeply influences adolescent development across multiple areas:

You don’t need to have it all figured out by 25 (or 35, or 45). Life is a series of "sets" and "photoshoots"—some turn out perfect, and some need a little more editing. Just keep showing up as your most authentic self.

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