Episode 3: Social Media and Mental Health

 

“What students consume online doesn’t stay separate from their school day.”

 

In this episode of Navigating the Digital Playground, listeners hear directly from school counselors about how students’ digital habits intersect with mental health, relationships, and learning.

Counselors share patterns they are noticing related to social media use, online content, and emotional wellbeing. They discuss how algorithms and constant connectivity can influence students’ experiences, and why helping students build awareness is often more effective than focusing only on limits or restrictions.

This conversation highlights the important role counselors, families, and educators play in supporting students as they learn to navigate technology thoughtfully and responsibly. Episode 3 is designed to help adults better understand what students may be experiencing and how to approach digital conversations with empathy, trust, and support.

🎧 Listen Now

🎥 YouTube: https://youtu.be/50sNahFNrpE

📻 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5cQGVVtNd9dy2mnteMIlmK?si=yD1IVS2rQvyROOl5vBxNMw

📃 Transcript 

 

Resources

• Common Sense Media: Reviews, parent guides, and conversation starters about apps, games, and screen time 
   
• American Academy of Pediatrics - Family Media Plan: Practical guidance for creating balanced media habits by age. 
   
• CDC - Youth Mental Health Resources: High-level, research-based context around wellbeing and screen use 
   
• HealthyChildren.org: Clear, parent-friendly articles on technology, sleep, and development.