Nottingham is observing Youth Mental Health Day on September 19, focusing on the theme #ControlYourScroll, which advocates for safe and positive online experiences for young people. Recent data reveals that over 5,000 children aged 5 to 16 in Nottingham face mental health challenges, emphasizing the need for this initiative.
Dr. Elizabeth Lee, Clinical Psychologist and Director of Purple House Clinic Nottingham, shares strategies for parents to help their children navigate the digital landscape. While social media can foster connections and provide educational resources, misuse can lead to issues like online bullying, misinformation, and social media addiction, all detrimental to mental health.
Dr. Lee advises on managing privacy by limiting what is shared online and curating feeds to include only uplifting content. She highlights the importance of avoiding comparisons, as social media often showcases a distorted reality. Encouraging children to focus on engagement rather than validation through likes can help reduce anxiety.
Living in the moment is crucial; setting time limits for social media use and taking breaks can enhance mental well-being. Dr. Lee emphasizes the differences in how adults and teens process social media, noting that teens often struggle more with emotional regulation due to their developing brains.
Finally, she encourages disconnecting from devices before bedtime to improve sleep quality and utilizing both online and in-person mental health resources for support. By adopting these practices, families can create healthier digital habits and foster resilience in young people.
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