The Russell Moore Show

Hope in Darkness

Sep 18, 2024

Alan Noble, an associate professor and editor in chief of Christ and Pop Culture, dives into a crucial discussion on mental health challenges, especially among youth. He emphasizes the need for a tobacco-style warning for social media to combat rising crises. Noble shares insights from his book on the nuances of mental affliction versus illness, the power of friendship, and living life as an act of worship. The conversation also touches on men's role in embodying healthy masculinity and practical approaches to prayer and self-care in times of struggle.

51:15

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Episode guests

Alan Noble

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

The podcast emphasizes the mental health crisis among young people, urging for warning labels on social media to highlight its risks.

It discusses the importance of community and authentic relationships in helping individuals navigate mental affliction and personal struggles.

Deep dives

The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health

Social media usage, particularly among young people, has significant consequences for mental health. The podcast highlights recent calls for warning labels on social media platforms, akin to those on tobacco products, to alert users, especially vulnerable demographics, about the potential mental health risks. Research shows that young individuals, particularly young girls, are most impacted due to the unrealistic standards and pressures propagated online. Engaging in social media for validation often leads to distorted perceptions of normalcy, which hampers real-life social interactions and can contribute to mental distress.

Intro

4min

Social Media and Mental Health: A Double-Edged Sword

16min

Witnessing Strength in Everyday Life

3min

Navigating Agency and Compassion in Mental Health

9min

Navigating Emotions in Prayer

2min

Understanding and Overcoming Moral Scrupulosity

5min

Navigating Self-Esteem in a Pornographic Culture

11min

Content warning: This episode discusses mental affliction, self-harm, and suicide.

The United States surgeon general says there should be a tobacco-style warning for social media. Why? Because the mental health crisis among young people is reaching seriously harmful levels.

On this episode, associate professor, author, and cofounder and editor in chief of Christ and Pop Culture Alan Noble joins Russell Moore to discuss what such a warning may look like and the modern state of affairs in the public square. Noble and Moore talk about Noble’s latest book, On Getting Out of Bed, and the differences between mental affliction and mental illness. The conversation covers the importance of friendship, embracing life as an act of worship, and how men can embody healthy masculinity.

Resources mentioned in this episode or recommended by the guest include: