No one expected a photo of an egg (like, a totally regular egg) to become more Instagram famous than Kylie Jenner, but in 2019, anything is possible. The egg, which goes by world_record_egg on Instagram and is named Eugene, according to the New York Times, did indeed break Kylie's record in early January, accumulating more likes than anyone else has ever gotten with one photo on the social media platform. But on Super Bowl Sunday, Eugene did something else totally un-egg-spected: He cracked under the pressure of being social media's biggest star, for the benefit of our mental health.
In a PSA aired on Hulu after the big game, Eugene opened up about the pressure of being popular on social media, something many celebs and influencers have also talked about. Rather than keep that pressure to himself, Eugene talked about how help is available for anyone feeling too much pressure from social media, or needing assistance with any other aspect of mental health.
"The pressure of social media is getting to me," a cracked Eugene said. "If you're struggling too, talk to someone. We got this." The PSA, now also on Instagram, encourages viewers to go to talkingegg.info, where they can find mental health resources from across the globe. The caption notes how encouraged Eugene is after getting help with his mental health: "Phew! I feel so much better now. If you’re feeling the pressure, visit talkingegg.info to find out more," it reads. "Let’s build this list together."
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People had a lot to say about the egg's mental health PSA, including praise for calling attention to an important issue and disappointment with the final product. But we know that social media can contribute to poor mental health, so the egg raises a super important issue. We also know that seeking treatment for mental health concerns works. So, Eugene is right: Help is out there, and it works.
Related: 52 Mental Health Resources for Disabled People, POC, LGBTQ Folks, and More
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