Nurturing Mental Health in the Digital Age: Essential Courses for Mental Health Professionals

The surge in social media use among youth and its impact on mental health has become a growing concern.

When asked about the impact of social media on their body image, 46% of adolescents aged 13-17 said social media makes them feel worse, 40% said it makes them feel neither better nor worse, and only 14% said it makes them feel better. Additionally, 64% of adolescents are “often” or “sometimes” exposed to hate-based content through social media.

As mental health professionals, it is crucial to stay informed and equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to address the effects of social media on youth mental health. In response to the recent advisory issued by the Surgeon General, this article recommends essential courses that mental health professionals can take to enhance their understanding and ability to support young individuals in navigating the challenges posed by social media.

1. Ethics and Risk Management Social Media and the Internet

The presence of the Internet and social media in therapists’ and clients’ lives requires clinicians to think through ethical implications for clinical practice and training. This course presents an ethical framework for clinicians to consider. In addition, numerous clinical situations are presented for clinicians to think through for their own practice.

2. Cyberbullying Consequences: Identification, Prevention and Response

Cyberbullying can be defined as willful and repeated harm inflicted through the use of computers, cell phones and other electronic devices. It has become increasingly common as the digital sphere has expanded, especially among teenagers.

3. Treatment of Depression in Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review

Depressive disorders can affect long-term mental and physical health functioning among children and adolescents, including increased risk of suicide.

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