Anxious Generation

On the evening of Thursday, September 19 our Saint Patrick Catholic School community came together to participate in a state-wide discussion about the impacts of social media and smartphone usage on today’s youth. First Lady Suzanne Youngkin invited schools from around the Commonwealth to participate in a virtual fireside chat with award-winning social psychologist, author, and researcher Dr. Jonathan Haidt, author of bestseller, The Anxious Generation. During the discussion, Dr. Haidt highlighted four key strategies to improve students mental health and well-being in relation to social media and cell phone use: 

Dr. Haidt argued that data shows we have rewired childhood over the last two decades, but have the opportunity to help end the epidemic of mental illness by following the four strategies above. He went on to say that childhood is about play, taking risks, and real-world interactions with both peers and adults. A “slow growth childhood” allows children to become active members of society and to discover what it means to be a healthy, happy, and productive adult.

After the fireside chat concluded, Head of School Lauren Mazzari led an in-person discussion with Wolfhound parents, faculty, and staff, sharing how the School is addressing the issues laid out in Dr. Haidt’s book. Starting with the Graduate at Graduation and The Life of Health and Wellness, each student at Saint Patrick learns how crucial emotional and psychological well-being are to one’s growth and Total Formation. Mrs. Mazzari spoke to our Middle School-centered schedule, no cellphone policy, recess, family-style dining experience, and emphasis on faith and reflection as examples of the School’s proactive and intentional approach to teaching our students to become the best versions of themselves. 

Mrs. Mazzari concluded the discussion by acknowledging that we must tackle these challenges as a community and that parents, faculty, and staff need to work together. The School is planning grade-level parent chats to set goals and explore further opportunities throughout the year. It truly takes a village, but we look forward to the ongoing conversation and doing what is best for Wolfhound students as we educate and nurture the whole child - mind, body, and spirit - to be Christ-centered, compassionate, and courageous servant leaders.