Youth, Social Media, & Mental Health: What Every Behavioral Health Professional Should Know

Training Description

Youth are growing up in an increasingly digital world where social media plays a central role in communication, learning, entertainment, and identity development. While these platforms can foster creativity and tools for learning, growing evidence also points to the potential risks of excessive or unhealthy social media use, including anxiety, depression, cyberbullying, sleep disruption, unrealistic body image expectations and eating disorders, diminished face-to-face social skills, and compulsive technology use. 

As concerns about youth mental health continue to grow—and as states like California advance legislation aimed at improving children's online safety—behavioral health professionals, educators, and caregivers need practical, evidence-informed strategies to help young people develop healthier relationships with technology. 

This interactive workshop explores the psychological, developmental, and social impacts of social media on children and adolescents through a balanced, research-informed lens. Participants will examine how algorithms, persuasive design, and the "attention economy" influence behavior; identify the warning signs of problematic social media use; and explore the relationship between digital habits, emotional well-being, self-esteem, and healthy development. 

The training also introduces the concept of a "social media diet," a strengths-based framework that emphasizes intentional, balanced technology use rather than complete avoidance. Participants will learn practical assessment tools, prevention strategies, and clinical interventions to help children, adolescents, and families build digital resilience, strengthen real-world relationships, and establish healthy technology habits that support lifelong mental health and well-being. 

Upon completing the live virtual training, you will receive a Certificate of Attendance for attending the training.