New York Gov. Kathy Hochul announced new digital wellness resources aimed at teaching young people, caregivers, and educators how to navigate digital media content safely.
The resources – developed by the state Office of Mental Health – are available on ‘Be Well’, an ongoing campaign to improve mental wellness statewide.
“As New York’s first mom Governor, I’m concerned about the mental health of our children and how their struggles with depression and anxiety relate to the digital media they consume at an alarming rate,” Hochul said in a Dec. 31 press release.
“With digital devices being popular gifts during the holidays these resources will help caregivers, teachers and young people themselves embrace healthier habits with their digital devices and to better understand the role digital media plays in their mental wellness along with the steps they can take to protect their mental health,” Hochul said.
The new resources include information on how to maintain healthy habits with smartphones, tablets, and computers. The content is organized into information for youth and young adults, parents and caregivers, and educators, in addition to all New Yorkers.
For example, the resources recommend turning off nonessential notifications to avoid feeling overwhelmed and unfollowing social media accounts that cause stress. They also include information on online privacy, with tips such as creating unique usernames, using strong passwords, and rejecting cookies.
“These resources are designed to help New Yorkers develop healthy habits with technology and avoid the behaviors that can leave them stressed, anxious, and depressed,” said New York State Office of Mental Health Commissioner, Ann Sullivan. “This content continues Governor Hochul’s ongoing commitment to protecting youth mental health and ensuring everyone has access to the mental health resources they can rely on to thrive.”
