You are not alone: your phone is not your friend
May is a special month for us at Project SAFE as it marks Mental Health Awareness Month. This observance, established in 1949 by Mental Health America, serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of mental health and the need for support and resources for those facing mental health challenges. At Project SAFE, we are dedicated to empowering individuals and families to make healthy choices and improve their overall functioning through a variety of therapeutic approaches.
This year, Project SAFE is promoting the theme, “You are not alone: your phone is not your friend.” These days, everyone, especially teenagers, always seem to be on their phone. CBS News reports that “teens can spend anywhere from four to 13 hours per day on their phones, with bedtime being the biggest downfall.”
Whether it’s scrolling on Instagram or TikTok about celebrity gossip or posting a “Get Ready With Me” video, phones and social media often replace real connections for teenagers.
Research on the effects of social media on teens shows increased depression, anxiety, obesity, and self-harm. Project SAFE has seen a noticeable increase in these behaviors over the past decade , with teens often self-diagnosing online.
Social media is here to stay , so managing its use is crucial to help teens functioning
better. Through limited daily social media use and support from their parents, teens will be able to improve their mental health and live healthier lives.
This May, we invite everyone to join us in our mission to promote mental health and well-being as we encourage everyone to take a break from scrolling on their phones. Take advantage of the Spring weather by going for a walk with a friend or a family member, grab an ice cream cone, have a picnic in your local park or take a free outdoor yoga class in your community!
Your phone is not your friend, and if you take a break from it, you’ll get to experience a beautiful world! Project SAFE is working to create a community where everyone feels empowered to make healthy choices and lead fulfilling lives. Join us to learn how together we can make a difference.
