The presentation, introduced by Jenny Jacobs, a school counselor and co-facilitator of the Wellness Committee, featured contributions from Dr. Alysa Shiri and Helen Bronco. Prevention consultants David Mills and Megan Gabe from NJ4S led the discussion, which was framed as a “Survival Guide” for parents and caregivers. The presenters underscored the pressing nature of mental health issues in the digital age, noting that NJ4S offers free resources and programs for both schools and families across Morris and Sussex counties.

A significant portion of the discussion focused on the pervasive influence of social media on youth, both positive and negative. While social media provides avenues for communication, self-expression, and community building, the presenters highlighted its potential drawbacks, such as diminished self-esteem due to constant comparisons and the “fear of missing out” (FOMO). Statistics were shared, revealing that teens spend over three hours on social media daily, a habit linked to adverse mental health outcomes by the Surgeon General.

The presentation addressed cyberbullying as a concern, noting its relentless nature and the various ways it can manifest online. They stressed the necessity of open discussions about suicide, debunking myths that hinder such conversations. It was made clear that talking about suicide does not plant the idea but rather provides an opportunity for young individuals to seek help.

In addressing the risks associated with social media, the discussion moved toward strategies for parents to manage their children’s online engagement. The importance of trusted adults in children’s lives was emphasized.

Practical suggestions for managing social media use were shared, including limiting daily engagement to approximately 30 minutes and encouraging breaks from digital interactions. Parents were advised to update privacy settings on apps and websites and to conduct their own research on the applications their children use, particularly high-risk platforms like Snapchat and TikTok. The use of monitoring tools like the Canopy app was discussed, which allows parents to oversee app downloads and receive alerts about potentially harmful interactions.

The discussion also highlighted the role of social media in contributing to suicidal thoughts among young people, while acknowledging its integral part in modern life. Instead of advocating for a complete ban, the presenters suggested fostering guided, supervised engagement with social media, as recommended by the Surgeon General for youth under 13. An anecdote shared a creative approach where a parent introduced their child to social media through an Instagram account for their dog, gradually acclimating them to digital interactions in a controlled setting.

The session concluded with a call for balanced social media usage, encouraging families to engage in positive interactions online. Suggestions for family activities included game nights with phone usage rules and challenges to minimize screen time. The presenters advocated for sharing inspirational content and fostering a supportive online environment by standing against cyberbullying. Resources, including a one-pager with crisis numbers, were provided for parents seeking further assistance, emphasizing the importance of blending guidance with understanding in navigating social media within the family dynamic.