South Brunswick Schools To Host Series On Mental Health & Tech

SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ - There have been several studies that indicate a link between the use of technology and mental health, including anxiety and depression. But at a time when technology has become an integral part of human lives, it's tough to make children and even adults stay away from it.

With this as a focus, the South Brunswick School District is hosting their upcoming Parent Academy. Titled "The Anxious Generation," its has been inspired by the New York Times Best Seller, "The Anxious Generation," by Jonathan Haidt.

The three-part series aims to foster meaningful discussions about the negative impacts of smartphones and social media on children’s mental health. Through an exploration of Haidt’s work, the district will discuss how cultural shifts – from the pressures of social media to our own well-meaning parenting practices — are contributing to unprecedented levels of anxiety and depression in children.

Each session, presented by members of the district’s Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Committee, will welcome a guest expert(s) and equip families with new insights on phone-based childhoods, as well as practical strategies to better promote emotional well-being.

The three-part Parent Academy series will be held at Crossroads North Middle School, located at 635 Georges Road, Monmouth Junction, from 6:30 p.m. - 8 p.m., with the first session being held on Feb. 20.

Attendees will be entered into a drawing to receive a copy of Haidt’s book. Community members looking to attend should register here.

Here are the dates and panel experts:

1. Part I: Feb. 20, 2025; Guess expert, Mr. Ira Hays, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, specializing in anxiety disorders
2. Part II: March 18, 2025; Guess expert, Ms. Mary-Kate Hogan, Licensed Professional Counselor, specializing in depression, anxiety, technology addiction, and more
3. Part III: April 2, 2025; Guest experts, SBSD Student Panel