LeShelle and I often discussed when to give our daughters cellphones, aware of the mental health challenges linked to their use and the impact of social media. As the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports, 42% of teens experience persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness, indicating a significant mental health crisis affecting adolescents nationwide, including in Davis.

Read More

Even during summer, which typically eases academic pressure, many young people report heightened isolation and anxiety as the school year approaches, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation. Open discussions about mental health are increasingly vital.

In a recent episode of my video podcast "Face to Face with Chancellor May," I spoke with Professor Amanda Guyer from the UC Davis Department of Human Ecology. She leads the Teen Experiences, Emotions & Neurodevelopment (TEEN) Lab and emphasized that there is no singular cause of the mental health challenges faced by adolescents. Instead, she describes it as a multifaceted issue influenced by factors such as the lingering effects of social isolation from the COVID-19 pandemic, constant access to social media, and the heightened awareness of global issues like political polarization. These factors contribute to various mental health concerns, including feelings of hopelessness and body image issues.

Professor Guyer noted that while the reduction of stigma surrounding mental health care and improved screening in educational and medical settings have led to increased reporting of mental health issues, there is a genuine rise in adolescent mental illnesses.

Her lab is dedicated to understanding how parents, schools, and communities can better support adolescents in navigating their identities and the surrounding risks. One key study is examining data from over 10,000 adolescents to evaluate how early experiences of loneliness and family conflict can predict future aggression and victimization, emphasizing the importance of meaningful relationships on emotional health.

This research is vital for developing new interventions for adolescents, as Professor Guyer stressed. She also highlighted the remarkable potential of the adolescent brain, which continues to develop well into the mid-20s. Adolescents are at a stage where they can explore new interests and cultivate independence. As she points out, it is important for young people to take positive risks and discover their identities.

Professor Guyer has recently concluded a two-year term on the Davis Senior High School Site Council, showcasing how academic research is interwoven with community involvement. The Davis Joint Unified School District shows strong support for its students, focusing on their social and emotional well-being to foster a sense of belonging.

Throughout our discussion, Professor Guyer emphasized that making adolescents feel heard and supported helps them develop a sense of purpose as they transition into adulthood. She advocates for open communication between parents and children regarding mental health concerns, suggesting that discussions about cellphone use and social media can help set important boundaries.

Ultimately, as I reflect on my early conversations with LeShelle regarding our daughters, I remember that foundational support begins with active engagement and communication. As parents, educators, and community members, we can all play a role in promoting the well-being of our young people.