[Music] [Music] Isn't it wild how much the internet has changed. Back when I was a child, the meaning of screen time and any concerns around it were focused around how closely I sat to the television while watching Bugs Bunny or Say by the Bell. And now, decades later, the meaning has completely changed.The internet, which was once a novelty, has become an integral part of our day-to-day lives, ultimately shaping how we connect, how we learn, and how we interact. And as I reflect on this shift, I can't help ...

Mental Health Crisis - Suicide is the second leading cause of death among individuals aged 10 to 24 in the United States [1] - Poor mental health is a significant problem, but solutions are available [1] Factors Contributing to Declining Mental Health - Excessive screen time distracts and lowers self-esteem [3] - Unhealthy diets of junk food negatively impact the gut-brain connection, studied in nutritional psychiatry [4] - Daily challenges, though seemingly small, compound over time and negatively affect mental health [5] Impact of Technology - Teenagers spend an average of 6 to 8 hours per day on devices for leisure [6] - Excessive device usage correlates with increased stress, depression, and anxiety [7] - Smartphones, with their combination of camera, internet, and social media, can negatively impact mental health [7] Mitigation Strategies - Meditation can be used as a tool to improve mental health [8][14] - Meditation cultivates patience, focus, and mindfulness [11] - Mindfulness skills learned through meditation can lead to a calmer mind, improved concentration, and a solid foundation for good mental health [12][13]