As a parent, I have had to deal with the challenge of addressing the ever-growing and ever-changing ways in which social media and technology have influenced the health and wellness of my daughters. This has been a constant source of conversation with them, as well as with other parents.

The research is clear about harmful effects. Fortunately, we as a society have now identified this problem and have begun to take positive steps to address the issue in meaningful ways. This two-hour video of the recent U.S. Senate Commerce Committee’s hearing on The Impact of Technology on Youth provides a comprehensive summary of the problems we face and what we can do. It is well worth the time to learn what is going on and to hear some of the recommendations that were given during the hearing. This survey, NJ Voters Favor Social Media Warning Labels,  conducted by PDFNJ and Fairleigh Dickinson University shows we in New Jersey understand this issue needs to be addressed. Australia has already banned social media for their younger teenagers. 

Four experts in the fields of mental health and academia testified at the hearing on the negative impact of technology on the mental health of our youth and on academic performance. The mental health crisis started well before the Covid pandemic, and increased use of technology was a primary factor in driving up higher rates of anxiety, depression and caused our youth to feel loneliness and more isolated. 

We also know that mental health issues are related to youth engaging in unhealthy behaviors such as underage drinking, vaping, marijuana and misuse of opioids and other prescription medications. Technology has made it so much easier for youth to get their hands on these products.

Please consider scheduling the  15 Minute Child Break Presentation, for your school, community or faith-based organization. This free multi-media program covers the latest drug trends and provides parents, coaches, teachers and other adult caregivers with effective preventive strategies to communicate with their kids about substance use and misuse.