Episode 72: In this episode, we explore a timely and powerful topic: the impact of social media on teen mental health. But this isn’t your typical discussion. This time, teens take center stage, sharing their real-life experiences, insights, and challenges. Our guest host, Niku Sedarat—an 18-year-old mental health advocate and founder of Unité—is joined by three young adult guests and Harvard psychologist and researcher Dr. Emily Weinstein. Together, they bring unique perspectives on how social media both supports and challenges youth mental well-being. This episode delves into the complex realities behind the headlines offering parents, teens themselves and caregivers research-based findings, fresh insights into how to better understand—and support—the digital lives of today’s teens.
Broadcast: 11/3/24 & 11/11/24
Producer & Host: Debra Sloss, LMFT
Guest Host: Niku Sedarat
Guests: Emily Weinstein EdD, Alondra Gomez, Ieleen Li & Isaac Lara
SPECIAL THANKS TO: Youssef Hassanein for audio production, Patrice Vecchione for “In Your Voice” story coaching, Pati Palmer for transcriptions, Rebecca Levy for media outreach, Sarah Altman for community outreach, and Katrina Tattenham for advance research. And thanks to acoustic guitarist Adrian Legg for composing, performing, and donating the use of our theme music.
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RESOURCES:
* Indicates a Monterey Bay Area Resource
From the Center for Digital Thriving
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- 7 Common Thinking Traps – Examples of exaggerated or irrational negative thought patterns related to technology and social media, created by the Center for Digital Thriving at Harvard Graduate School of Education, in partnership with Common Sense Education. Link to Thinking Traps Video
- How Parents Can Take Action and Support Teen Mental Health – A practical toolkit for parents, developed by The Center for Health Communication at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, to help content creators share evidence-based health information on social media.
Youth Mental Health Resources
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*AIM Youth Mental Health – An organization that bridges the gap between research and accessible mental health care for youth by funding evidence-based treatments, empowering youth to explore their own mental health solutions, and training adults to create safe, supportive communities.
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*AIM Ideas Lab – Invites and engages high school students in Youth Participatory Action Research, amplifying youth voices in mental health research.
- *AIM Youth Mental Health First Aid– Provides affordable, regularly scheduled trainings for individuals, as well as custom group sessions for 12 or more at a time and place that’s convenient.
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- Allcove – Youth mental health centers across California offering a range of services, from peer support to clinical care, aimed at connecting young people to resources.
- peers.net – Developed by Flourish Labs, this digital peer support service connects young people with trained peers who have lived experience of recovery, providing guidance and support.
- Unité: Mental Health for the Youth by the Youth – A global youth community with a website offering psychoeducational blogs, infographics, and mental health resources (hotlines, support groups, books, podcasts, etc.) in multiple languages.
- Each Mind Matters – An organization providing resources and initiatives to improve community mental health, prevent suicide, and promote student well-being.
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Mental Health Organizations
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- Mental Health America ( MHA) – A leading national nonprofit offering resources such as mental health screenings, research, programs, and services.
- Together for Wellness – A UC Davis-based initiative providing accessible mental health resources (apps, websites, articles, videos) to help communities manage stressors.
- *NAMI Santa Cruz County – A grassroots nonprofit offering free classes, support groups, crisis resources, and advocacy for those facing mental health challenges and their families.
- *NAMI Monterey County – A grassroots nonprofit offering free classes, support groups, crisis resources, and advocacy for those facing mental health challenges and their families.
- NAMI National – A comprehensive website with information, resources, and national advocacy on mental health.
- NAMI California – Offers training, education, and advocacy resources specific to California.
Books
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- Behind Their Screens: What Teens Are Facing (and Adults Are Missing) by Emily Weinstein and Carrie James (2022) – Offers an inside look at how teens navigate the digital world, challenging misconceptions and revealing why typical adult approaches to tech guidance often miss the mark. Through research-driven insights, the authors show how adults can better support teens in managing their online lives.
Apps
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- Soluna – A mental health app for California youth featuring mini-lessons, affirmations, and white noise.
ADHD Specific Resources from Ieleen
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- Dani Donovan – ADHD comics and infographics that are both relatable and informative.
- r/adhdwomen –A supportive subreddit for women with ADHD, where members share success stories and resources.
- Little Witch Academia – A lighthearted, comedic anime with themes of self-belief and positivity, providing a hopeful perspective.
- Mitsukiyo – ‘The Green Letter’ – An album of whimsical, relaxing instrumental music to help with stress or overwhelm.
Self-Care Tips from Alondra
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- Journaling/Writing – Writing down thoughts and worries can help reduce overwhelm and clear the mind.
- Screen Time Management – Setting limits on phone use serves as a reminder to balance screen time with more productive activities.
- Supportive Friend Circle – Close friends provide vital support and a listening ear when needed.
- Sports/Extracurriculars – Engaging in healthy activities keeps you active, productive, and connected to positive environments.
* Indicates a Monterey Bay Area Resource
