BY DR. STEVE FRIEND
What do teens, anxiety, depression and increased rates of suicide have to do with social media (Facebook, Snapchat, Instagram, etc...)?
A GREAT DEAL!
According to the latest research there is a direct relationship between the amount of time preteens and teens spend on social media AND feelings of ANXIETY, DEPRESSION and RATES OF SUICIDE. Psychiatrists, psychotherapists and pediatricians are sounding the alarm!
Have you thought about taking your child’s smartphone away from them? You would be in good company.
STEVE JOBS revolutionized the world with his iPhone, BUT he wouldn’t let his own children have one!!
Ex-Facebook Executive Chamath P. said, I don’t use that stuff and my kids don’t use it either!
Former Facebook President, Sean Parker, admits Facebook was designed to be addictive!
Suicide death rates for children and adolescents aged 10-19 years for leading methods: United States, 1999-2016
A few ALARMING statistics:
Anxiety, depression and mental illness in preteens and teens is skyrocketing
Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death between the ages of 15-24
Suicide is the 3rd leading cause of death in children 10-14
Suicide rates have doubled in the last decade
What can parents do to help prevent anxiety, depression and increased rates of suicide in preteens and teens??
DON’T LET YOUR PRETEENS AND TEENS HAVE SMART PHONES & CLOSELY MONITOR ALL SCREEN TIME!
Keep the lines of communication open with your children. Have a heart to heart talk with them and be aware of any changes in their behavior. If they verbalize suicidal thoughts take them seriously and seek help immediately.
For further information, please consult with your mental health care professional.