The Anxious Generation: Book Discussion & Conversation

Some of the most important advocates for youth health and well-being including the Surgeon General and the American Academy of Pediatrics are sounding the alarm about excessive smartphone use even in the school setting, too much screen time and the negative impact of social media on youth mental health.

The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness by Jonathan Haidt has created enormous buzz. He addresses these concerns by asking the questions, "Why has the mental health of adolescents plunged since the early 2010's? Why have rates of depression, anxiety, self-harm, and suicide rose sharply, more than doubling on many measures?".

With his clear call to action, Haidt lays out the facts about the epidemic of teen mental illness that hit many countries at the same time and proposes some important and easily doable solutions. Join us for a conversation about this timely topic as we share insights from Haidt's book.

The library is partnering with the Voorheesville School District to provide an open exchange of thoughts, ideas, and possible solutions to the ongoing debate about the pros and cons of ubiquitous screens.

The discussion will be facilitated by Claire Marcus, middle and high school psychologist and Kristen Heyde, high school counselor.For parents, caregivers, teachers or any interested adult. Please email gail.brown@voorpl.org to register, then pick up a copy of the book, or borrow through Libby.

The discussion will be held at the VCSD Large Group Instruction Room - High School Building