Minding the Brain Social Media & Mental Health with Dr. Andrea Howard, Part 2 – #92
Jul 1, 2025
The discussion tackles the intricate relationship between social media and youth mental health. Topics include the responsibility of parents and governments, as well as the challenges of regulating phone use in schools. Insights on Australia’s social media age ban raise questions about its effectiveness and enforcement. The podcast also highlights the addictive behaviors associated with social media, emphasizing the importance of family communication. Lastly, the role of AI in social media is explored, revealing both its supportive potential and concerns regarding young users.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Parental Guidance on Social Media
- Model healthy social media use by demonstrating intentional and mindful habits without shaming or blaming your children.
- Establish judgment-free dialogue to ask curious questions about their interests and concerns with social media.
Set Boundaries and Watch Coping
- Create digital-free zones in your home, such as the dining table and bedrooms, to promote healthier habits and better sleep.
- Watch for signs that social media is becoming a sole coping mechanism for negative emotions, as this signals problematic use.
Limits of School Phone Bans
- System-wide bans on phones or social media in schools often fail and push youth to less regulated platforms.
- Digital literacy and harm reduction are more effective than abstinence-focused bans or policies.