Studies show the impact of technology on the mental health of younger generations – and schools must take responsibility to combat the problem
Children and adolescents are increasingly experiencing mental health problems. Data from the SUS Psychosocial Care Network (RAPS), collected from 2013 to 2023, indicate that the level of anxiety among children and young people has surpassed that of adults. An analysis carried out by Folha de S.Paulo shows that this change occurred in 2022. According to experts, this is a consequence of the impact of technology on these generations.
The Covid-19 pandemic has been a major factor, as it has directly affected the lives of the vast majority of people, including young people. They have started having a new routine, with online studies and less socializing.
The scenario has also reached the youngest, especially children in early childhood (up to 6 years old). A study published in the journal Jama Pediatrics has shown that the long period of exposure to children’s screens has led to less verbal interaction between the little ones and their parents.
Another study, this time from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), concluded that excessive use of screens is linked to a worsening of the mental health of the elderly, adults, adolescents and children. According to research, excessive use of cell phones and computers causes symptoms of stress, depression and anxiety.
The role of the school
According to Maria Carolina Araujo, director of education at Rede Anglo Alante, it is worrying to see how the use of cell phones affects the mental health of young people. For her, they find themselves immersed in a virtual world, comparing their lives with idealized versions of other people on social media. They also shut themselves off from the real world, damaging their socialization and their ability to cope.
“It is essential that the school environment offers alternatives and promotes awareness of the importance of balance between the digital world and the physical world. It is not about banning something that is already part of the reality of these young people, but about offering alternatives in which the cell phone is another option and not the only one, thus demonstrating that life goes beyond the virtual world and that there are many options and ways to have fun in the real world,” he emphasizes.
According to Gabriella Neves, a psychologist at FourC Bilingual Academy, school plays an important role in this context. In addition, it can help reduce student anxiety by providing a safe and welcoming environment.
“There are strategies that can provide an inclusive and flexible environment where students can feel valued and safe to talk about their feelings, with action plans and adjustments based on their needs,” she explains.
“Promoting physical and recreational activities such as sports, art and other extracurricular activities that promote physical and mental well-being can also help,” says the psychologist. However, it is also necessary to identify cases in which it is appropriate to seek external support from health professionals, Gabriella emphasizes.
Replacing screens
Nowadays, more and more children intensify their contact with screens. Whether through television, smartphones, computers or other electronic devices. However, according to Sarah Helena, psychologist and curator of Leiturinha, there are other ways to provide entertainment and fun to children, without necessarily involving digital.
Reading is an example of this, as it is not only an alternative to electronic devices, but also stimulates reasoning and imagination, improving vocabulary and developing critical thinking.
“Reading is an analog activity, it has a slower pace and is respectful of children’s development. Unlike the overstimulation of the brain experienced with excessive use of screens, reading does not agitate or overwhelm children, but calms and quiets the mind so that learning is properly consolidated,” she explains.
In other words, according to her, we can say that reading is a calming and stimulating activity in the right way, bringing countless benefits to the child’s development.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
