Social media has become an integral part of our daily lives. We use it to connect with friends and family, share photos and experiences, and stay informed about current events. However, as social media platforms have become more sophisticated and engaging, the risk of addiction has increased. The constant stream of notifications, likes, and comments can create a powerful feedback loop that keeps users coming back for more, even when it’s harmful to their mental and physical well-being.

At Estey & Bomberger, LLP, our attorneys have seen firsthand how the negligent and deceptive practices of big tech companies have fueled this growing epidemic, putting profits ahead of people’s health and safety. We are committed to holding these companies accountable and helping victims of social media addiction seek the justice and compensation they deserve. If you or a loved one have been harmed by social media, contact us today and learn how we can help.

Why Work with the Attorneys at Estey & Bomberger, LLP?

Our attorneys have recovered millions of dollars for our clients who have been harmed by the negligence of large corporations. We know what it takes to navigate complex social media addiction lawsuits.
We have decades of experience helping victims stand up to powerful entities and fight for their rights. Leveraging this knowledge, we can help you craft a compelling case against big tech.
Our award-winning attorneys have been recognized as “Top Plaintiff Attorney” by the Daily Journal, “Trial Attorney of the Year” and “Outstanding Trial Lawyer” by the Consumer Attorneys of San Diego, and more.

What Is Social Media Addiction?

Social media addiction is a behavioral addiction characterized by an excessive and compulsive use of social media platforms, despite negative consequences. People with social media addiction may find it difficult to control their usage, spending hours scrolling through feeds, posting updates, and engaging with others online. They may neglect important aspects of their lives, such as work, school, or relationships, in favor of spending time on social media.

Big tech companies, like Meta (formerly Facebook), have been accused of fueling this addiction by designing their platforms to be as engaging and immersive as possible. In October 2021, former Facebook employee and whistleblower Frances Haugen revealed that the company was aware of the harmful effects of its platforms on young users, particularly teenage girls, but prioritized growth and engagement over user well-being. Haugen’s testimony to Congress shed light on the inner workings of Meta and the lengths to which the company would go to keep users hooked on its platforms.

The Dangers of Social Media Addiction

The consequences of social media addiction can be severe and far-reaching. Studies have shown that excessive social media use is associated with a range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and even suicidal thoughts. The constant comparison to others’ curated online lives can lead to feelings of inadequacy and social isolation, while the pressure to maintain a perfect online persona can be emotionally exhausting.

One study by the National Center for Biotechnology Information found that the more time teens spend on social media, the more likely they are to experience mental health issues, including depression and suicidal ideation. An internal study by Meta found that 13.5% of teen girls in the U.K. reported that they experienced more frequent suicidal thoughts after starting to use Instagram.

In addition to the psychological toll, social media addiction can also have physical consequences. Prolonged screen time can lead to eye strain, headaches, and poor posture, while the sedentary nature of social media use can contribute to obesity and other health problems. The addictive nature of social media can also disrupt sleep patterns, leading to insomnia and daytime fatigue.

Filing a Social Media Addiction Lawsuit in the US

If you or a loved one has suffered harm as a result of social media addiction, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit against the responsible parties. A social media addiction lawsuit seeks to hold big tech companies accountable for their role in creating and perpetuating this public health crisis. By taking legal action, you can seek compensation for the damages you have suffered and help prevent others from falling victim to the same harmful practices.

An attorney from Estey & Bomberger, LLP can assess your case and determine whether you are eligible for legal action. To qualify for a social media addiction lawsuit, you or your child generally need to meet the following criteria:

You or your child developed an addiction to a social media platform, such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, or Snapchat.
You or your child suffered physical or mental harm as a result of this addiction.
You or your child were under the age of 25 when the addiction started.

Compensation Available in a Social Media Addiction Lawsuit

The purpose of a social media addiction lawsuit is to help make the victim whole again after suffering harm due to the addiction. As such, you may be entitled to various forms of compensation through a lawsuit. The damages awarded in these cases can help cover the costs associated with treatment, therapy, and other expenses related to the addiction, as well as provide relief for the pain and suffering endured.

Generally, compensation in a social media addiction lawsuit is divided into three categories:

Economic Damages: These damages cover quantifiable financial losses, such as medical expenses, therapy costs, and lost wages due to the addiction’s impact on work or school performance. Economic damages may also include the cost of future treatment and care, as well as any long-term financial consequences of the addiction, such as reduced earning capacity or the need for ongoing support services.
Non-Economic Damages: These damages compensate for subjective, non-monetary losses, such as depression, suicidal ideation, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life caused by the addiction. Non-economic damages recognize the significant toll that social media addiction can take on a person’s mental health, relationships, and overall quality of life, and seek to provide compensation for these intangible but very real losses.
Punitive Damages: In cases where the defendant’s conduct is found to be particularly egregious or intentional, the court may award punitive damages to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future. Punitive damages may be awarded in instances where the social media company has shown a blatant disregard for user safety and well-being or has actively promoted addictive behavior despite knowing the potential harm it could cause. However, punitive damages are not available in every case, so make sure to speak with a lawyer about your eligibility.

It is important to note that the specific types and amounts of compensation available in a social media addiction lawsuit will depend on the unique circumstances of each case. An attorney from Estey & Bomberger, LLP can help you assess the full extent of your damages and build a strong case for maximum compensation.

How an Attorney from Estey & Bomberger, LLP Can Help You Seek Justice

Pursuing a social media addiction lawsuit can be a complex and daunting process, especially when going up against powerful tech giants. Having experienced and dedicated legal representation by your side can make all the difference in securing a favorable outcome for your case. The attorneys at Estey & Bomberger, LLP have the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary to effectively advocate for your rights and hold social media companies accountable for the harm they have caused.

Our award-winning lawyers can offer several advantages when filing your lawsuit, such as:

Expertise in Product Liability: Our attorneys have extensive experience in product liability claims, which they can leverage to explore this emerging area of law and hold social media companies accountable for the harm caused by their platforms. We understand the complex legal and technical issues involved in these cases and have the knowledge and resources to build a strong case on your behalf.
Proven Track Record Against Large Corporations: We have a history of success in taking on large corporations and securing substantial settlements and verdicts for our clients. Our attorneys are not intimidated by the vast resources and legal teams of big tech companies, and we are prepared to fight tirelessly to protect your rights and interests.
Comprehensive Case Strategy: Our firm will work closely with you to gather evidence, consult with experts, and develop a strong case strategy tailored to the unique circumstances of your social media addiction claim. We will explore all available legal options and pursue the most effective course of action to maximize your chances of success.
Compassionate and Client-Focused Approach: We understand the sensitive nature of social media addiction cases and are committed to providing personalized, empathetic support throughout the legal process. Our attorneys will take the time to listen to your story, answer your questions, and provide the guidance and reassurance you need during this challenging time.
Access to Expert Witnesses: To build a strong case, it is often necessary to engage expert witnesses who can provide testimony on the psychological, neurological, and technical aspects of social media addiction. Our firm has a network of highly qualified experts who can help strengthen your case and provide valuable insights into the harmful effects of social media addiction.
Commitment to Client Communication: We believe that open and regular communication is essential to the success of any legal case. Our attorneys will keep you informed about the progress of your case, provide timely updates, and be available to answer any questions or concerns you may have throughout the process.

Common Signs of Social Media Addiction

Social media addiction can manifest in various ways, and the symptoms may vary from person to person. However, there are some common indicators that you or a loved one may be struggling with this issue.

Recognizing the signs of social media addiction is crucial for seeking timely help and support. If you notice several of these signs in yourself or someone close to you, it may be time to seek professional guidance and consider your legal options:

Excessive time spent on social media
Neglecting responsibilities or relationships
Withdrawal symptoms when unable to access social media
Unsuccessful attempts to reduce social media use
Sleep disturbances due to late-night social media use
Decreased physical activity and engagement in hobbies
Feelings of anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem
Constantly checking notifications and updates
Endangering oneself or others to capture content for social media
Experiencing conflicts with others due to social media use
Lying about or hiding the extent of social media use
Feeling a sense of euphoria or excitement when using social media
Becoming defensive or irritable when questioned about social media use
Feeling a strong need to document and share all experiences on social media
Comparing oneself negatively to others on social media

Experiencing one or two of these signs does not necessarily indicate a social media addiction. However, if you or a loved one are exhibiting multiple signs and the behavior is causing significant distress or impairment in daily functioning, it may be time to seek help.

How Much Is the Average Social Media Addiction Settlement?

The amount of a settlement or verdict in a social media addiction lawsuit can vary widely depending on factors such as the severity of the harm suffered, the strength of the evidence, and the specific circumstances of the case. Some factors that may influence the value of a settlement include:

The extent of the physical and emotional damages caused by the addiction
The impact of the addiction on your ability to work, study, or maintain relationships
The duration and intensity of the addictive behavior
The egregiousness of the social media company’s conduct in promoting addiction
The jurisdiction in which the case is filed and the applicable laws

Due to the relatively new nature of social media addiction lawsuits, there is limited data on average settlement amounts. However, an attorney from Estey & Bomberger, LLP will advocate for the maximum compensation possible every step of the way.

Hold Big Tech Accountable—Contact Estey & Bomberger, LLP Today

If you or someone you love has suffered from social media addiction, you deserve justice and support. The attorneys at Estey & Bomberger, LLP are committed to helping victims of social media addiction seek the compensation they need to heal and move forward.

Remember, you are not alone in this fight. The attorneys at Estey & Bomberger, LLP can stand by your side and help you seek the justice and compensation you deserve. Contact us today at (800) 260-7197 for a free and confidential consultation and begin your legal journey.

Social Media Addiction Lawsuits