I recently read The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt on the “epidemic” of teen mental illness, with research linking the arrival of smartphones and social media to a decline in teen mental health. As a parent of a 5-year old, this research is deeply concerning (and frightening). As a Registered Counselling Therapist, I see many young adults experiencing anxiety and related mental health concerns, often beginning from childhood.
I was happy to learn that we have an organization in Canada advocating for delayed smartphone and social media use among children. Unplugged Canada engages in advocacy work to inform parents and stakeholders about the importance of delaying smartphones and social media use until the recommended age of 14 years old (16 for social media use).
I attended a recent presentation by Unplugged Canada (Nova Scotia chapter), they shared many resources, including, The Family Smartphone Guide and smartphone alternatives found below.
Unplugged Canada (Unplugged Canada NS Chapter)
Unplugged Canada (Unplugged Canada NS Chapter)