Are You Logged In? First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin on Youth Engagement in a Digital Age
Doro and Tricia welcome the First Lady of Virginia, Suzanne S. Youngkin, to Health Gig. Mrs. Youngkin talks about her journey into public service and the causes she champions, including increasing mental health support, addressing teen social media and smartphone usage, and reducing the use of harmful substances. She discusses her recommendations for healthier digital engagement and the role of schools in managing technology use. Mrs. Youngkin emphasizes the importance of fostering real-world experiences and the role parents have in modeling healthy behaviors, offering support to listeners that want to make a difference in their teens’ lives.
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Website: https://www.firstlady.virginia.gov/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SuzanneSYoungkin#
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suzanneyoungkin/
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qUOTES:
For too long, we have been ashamed to talk about mental health and substance use disorders, but now having open conversations in the media is so incredibly important to break that cycle. -Suzanne S. Youngkin
“Cell phones in school create diversions. Kids are preoccupied with their phones, keeping them from focusing on their school work and their relationships.” -Suzanne S. Youngkin
“Mental health tends to prey on the most vulnerable, those that have experienced trauma, those that have a predisposition toward addiction or mental health challenges.” -Suzanne S. Youngkin
Show Notes:
Takeaways
Mental health issues disproportionately affect women and girls, and social media has a profound impact on youth mental health, with alarming statistics on suicide and depression.
Delaying smartphone ownership and social media use can benefit young people's mental health.
Schools play a crucial role in managing technology use among students.
The average youth spends a significant amount of time on screens, impacting their daily lives, attention spans and social interactions.
Understanding the digital landscape is essential for parents to protect their children.
Reducing screen time is essential for youth well-being.
Open communication about mental health is crucial.
Community training on naloxone can save lives.
Right Help Right Now addresses gaps in mental health services.
Real-world experiences are vital for children's development.
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