St Albans schools tackle smartphone impact on youth mental health

Justine Elbourne-Cload, the executive head teacher at Cunningham Hill Junior School in St Albans, is deeply concerned about the impact of smartphones on children's mental health, particularly regarding eating disorders. Her personal experience with her son's struggle with an eating disorder has fueled her commitment to addressing the issue. She notes that several children at her school have faced similar challenges, which she believes have been exacerbated by social media and its algorithms. The rise in anxiety, anorexia, and attention disorders among youth has prompted schools in St Albans to take action against the pervasive influence of mobile devices. Elbourne-Cload emphasizes the need for a transformation in how children access smartphones, advocating for a more responsible approach akin to not selling alcohol to minors. The initiative aims to mitigate the negative effects of digital distractions on young minds, fostering a healthier environment for students. As schools begin to implement strategies to limit smartphone use, the hope is to create a supportive atmosphere that prioritizes mental well-being and addresses the underlying issues contributing to these disorders.