More than 120 school leaders representing over 50 schools from across Australia gathered for the inaugural National Mental Health & Social Media Symposium on 15 May. The event focused on addressing the growing impact of social media and device overuse on young people’s mental health and wellbeing.
Hosted by Brigidine College St Ives, the symposium brought together educators, wellbeing experts, technology specialists and policymakers for a day of keynote presentations, panel discussions and collaborative workshops.
The symposium explored a range of critical issues including adolescent mental health, digital wellbeing, online safety, social anxiety, gaming and gambling pathways, technology addiction, and the role of schools in supporting students and families in an increasingly online world.
Throughout the day, school leaders participated in breakout sessions focused on identifying practical strategies schools can implement immediately within their own communities.
Many participating schools also shared initiatives already being trialled within their communities, including screen-free weeks, technology-free playgrounds, reduced device use in classrooms, and increased focus on handwritten learning and face-to-face interaction.
Kate Quinane, Principal of Brigidine, said the strong national response to the event highlighted the urgency and importance of the conversation.
“The overwhelming level of engagement from schools across Australia demonstrates how deeply educators and communities are grappling with the impact of social media on young people,” Quinane said.
Following the success of the inaugural event, Brigidine has confirmed that the symposium will now become an annual national event.
“Our hope is that this symposium becomes an ongoing platform for leadership, collaboration and action in supporting the wellbeing of young people in the digital age,” Quinane said.