School District 2 Superintendent Dr. Erwin Garcia says students across the country are facing an increase in mental health issues due to social media and cell phones.
He hoped to address the issue with the help of some experts at a district meeting of superintendents at the high school Tuesday night.
“Mental health is an important area in the state of Montana,” Garcia said.
Our country has one of the highest suicide rates. It has one of the highest rates of depression and anxiety per capita. ”
Garcia said the district analyzed data for middle school and high school students last year.
“The percentage of students considering suicide as a resort was very close to 20 percent, and in some ways some students were obsessed with the topic,” Garcia said. “That’s quite concerning.”
The superintendent has joined the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) with a big message for parents to look out for their children, be aware of what their children are doing and not be afraid to ask for help. ) invited Billings.
“And the last time it happened, I was too close to that line,” said Cheryl Schaefer, a NAMI volunteer who has overcome depression.
Patti Yoder also works with NAMI.
“When you work with kids, you’re going to get frustrated and have tantrums because they don’t know what to say to you. This is what’s happening to me,” Yoder says. said.
In Our Own Voice is a NAMI program that incorporates experiences with depression and suicidal thoughts.
It gives you the knowledge and experience to help others.
“Don’t be afraid to notice small hints of difference that may signal something is coming, and to ask for help,” Schaefer says. “do not be afraid.”
Since 2010, anxiety among teenage girls has increased 150% and among teenage boys nationally by 100%, Garcia said.
He attributes much of that to social media and cell phones.
“It’s worth it for parents to be more aware of the use of technology and how technology, cell phones and social media, is impacting their children’s minds,” Garcia said.
That’s why District 2 has a new policy that requires students to leave their cell phones behind when entering class.
“In elementary and middle schools, most of the time, cell phones are not allowed in school,” Garcia said. “You have to leave your cell phone behind in high school. You are not allowed to enter the classroom and use your cell phone during class.”
For Garcia, that idea runs in the family.
“On a personal note, my kids don’t have social media,” Garcia said. “My kids don’t use cell phones. They probably won’t until they’re 17, 18 and ready to go to college.”
Schaefer also mentioned technology and reiterated the need to be mindful of our actions and not be ashamed to ask for help.
“That’s one of the things that people are embarrassed about,” Schaefer says. “But when you just speak up, you find out there are others out there. Maybe it’s your neighbor. Maybe your best friend isn’t sharing either. It’s the end of the world.” Not.”
