TikTok is introducing new features aimed at promoting better mental well-being among its users, including guided meditation tools and expanded mental health resources accessible directly within the app.
One major update is the launch of an in-app guided meditation experience. This feature offers visual prompts with calming animations to help users regulate their breathing and relax. It’s part of TikTok’s broader initiative to encourage mindfulness and reduce excessive screen time.
This meditation tool will be integrated into TikTok’s “Sleep Reminders” feature. According to TikTok, studies indicate that mindfulness practices like meditation can enhance sleep quality across all age groups. As part of the rollout, the platform will enable the “Meditation in Sleep Hours” feature for all users, with it being activated by default for teens under 18. If a teen uses TikTok past 10 p.m., their feed will pause to deliver a guided meditation session to help them wind down.
TikTok notes that early testing showed promising results: “98% of teens who tried the meditation feature chose to keep it on,” suggesting it has been well-received among younger audiences.
While meditation can affect individuals differently, TikTok’s wide reach could help normalize relaxation techniques and encourage healthier digital habits.
To support the rollout, TikTok has collaborated with child psychiatrist Dr. Willough Jenkins, who will lead a video series demonstrating how the Sleep Hours meditation works in real-life scenarios.
In addition, TikTok is bolstering its Mental Health Education Fund by donating $2.3 million worth of advertising credits to 31 mental health organizations across 22 countries. These credits will allow the organizations to reach users on the platform who may benefit from professional mental health resources.
With its large, youthful user base, TikTok’s initiatives could make a meaningful impact on mental health awareness and support. These efforts may also help address growing regulatory scrutiny in various regions, where there are ongoing discussions about raising the age limit for social media use due to concerns over mental health.
By incorporating built-in wellness features, TikTok aims to foster a more supportive online environment and show its commitment to user well-being.
