Attorney General Dave Sunday continued his series of teenTALK events by meeting with Berks County students this week to discuss the impacts of social media on mental health.
Students from numerous Berks County school districts participated in the open discussion with Attorney General Sunday. Many of them shared that they understood how important social media is for connection with their peers, but that there are many trends and habits that are dangerous to their mental health and their development.
The Office of Attorney General is compiling student opinions to evaluate ways the office can advocate for students and schools and contribute to safer spaces being available online.
“Hearing directly from students about how social media affects their lives is incredibly valuable,” Attorney General Sunday said. “The students were honest about the benefits — and many difficulties — that come with spending so much time online. Their voices can help shape conversations about how we can best support young people’s mental health and encourage healthier ways to engage online and on social media.”
Students participating in the discussion represented the Berks Co. Intermediate Unit’s Pathways to Adult Living Program, Berks Catholic High School, Boyertown Area School District, Exeter Township School District, Muhlenberg School District, Reading School District, Tulpehocken Area High School, and Wyomissing Area School District.
School leaders and staff also attended the event.
“We are grateful that Attorney General Dave Sunday brought the teenTALK roundtable to Berks County,” Dr. Jill Hackman, Executive Director of the Berks County Intermediate Unit, said. “Hearing directly from students about how social media and emerging technologies shape their lives is essential as we work together to support their safety and well-being.”
During this week’s teenTALK session, students spoke freely about their personal experiences with social media and how it impacts their mental health and relationships with their peers and loved ones.
Several students discussed the need for better oversight and restriction on the platforms in ways that are appropriate for the ages of the users. Although complicated, options like “Kids” versions of apps and better moderation of content and posts across the board is needed for younger users.
There also was a desire to have continued and diversified education about social media. Students said one assembly in middle school was often too late and not engaging enough. Kids are already online at that point, and there isn’t enough clarity on the direct impacts social media can have throughout their lives.
Across the board, students said social media affects their mood, stress levels, and overall well-being on a daily basis.
Students with concerns about their own or other’s mental health are encouraged to report any issues through the Office of Attorney General’s Safe2Say Something program. This program allows students to anonymously report concerns or incidents or violence and threats at their schools and communities involving gun violence, bullying, and threats of self-harm.
