Navigating the Digital Landscape: Cartwheel's New Program for Students
In an effort to combat the adverse effects of technology use among students, Cartwheel, the largest school-centered telehealth provider in the country, has launched its new Screens and Social Media Program. This initiative aims to support K-12 students dealing with mental health struggles linked to screen time and social media influences.
The Importance of Addressing Digital Stress
As digital stress becomes an increasing concern for schools, parents, and healthcare professionals, Cartwheel recognizes the need for a tailored approach. Recent data from Cartwheel shows troubling trends: many students are losing valuable sleep to their devices, facing family conflicts over screen time, and experiencing self-image issues exacerbated by social media. With nearly 400 school districts involved, the focus on individual experiences within this context has become more critical than ever.
Rather than merely suggesting a reduction in screen time, the program emphasizes understanding each student's unique relationship with technology. By including both licensed therapists and child psychiatrists in the process, the program offers comprehensive mental health care designed to build healthier digital habits for students and their families.
Services Offered in the Program
The Screens and Social Media Program includes a range of services tailored to help students and families cope with digital stress:
- - Individual and Family Therapy: Personalized sessions with trained professionals help assess and address each family's specific challenges associated with screen usage.
- - Targeted Screening and Assessment: Focused evaluation helps identify issues stemming from technology use, paving the way for effective treatment.
- - Caregiver Support Groups: These optional groups equip parents and caregivers with strategies to foster healthier routines and minimize conflicts related to technology use.
- - Optional Psychiatric Evaluation: For students exhibiting more severe anxiety, psychiatric evaluation and medication support options are available.
Jillian Kelton, Cartwheel’s Senior Director, expressed the program's unique perspective.