A Mental Health Advocate, Veronica Ezeh, is on a mission to raise awareness about the impact of social media on children’s mental well-being. As the Chief Executive Officer of Adicare Rehabilitation Home, she brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the table.
In a recent interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos, Mrs. Ezeh emphasized the critical role parents play in monitoring and regulating their children’s online activities. She highlighted how the pervasive influence of social media has introduced new challenges for young individuals, exposing them to potential harm and risky behavior.
Understanding the Risks
Mrs. Ezeh expressed concerns about how social media platforms can serve as breeding grounds for negative influences, leading children astray without parental knowledge. She pointed out that unlike in the past when physical presence was required to engage in unlawful activities, today’s digital landscape allows for anonymity and easy access to harmful content.
She underscored the importance of parents being actively involved in their children’s lives, knowing their friends, whereabouts, and online interactions. By fostering open communication and spending quality time together as a family, parents can strengthen bonds and create a supportive environment that promotes mental health.
The Impact of Digital Disconnect
In our fast-paced world where career demands often take center stage, Mrs. Ezeh cautioned against neglecting the emotional well-being of children amidst technological advancements. She stressed the need for regular family gatherings to nurture relationships and address any underlying mental health issues proactively.
According to her, setting clear rules within households is essential to establishing boundaries and promoting responsible behavior among youth navigating an increasingly complex digital terrain. By encouraging positive communication channels and mutual understanding, families can mitigate mental health challenges effectively.
Challenges from Entertainment Industry
Mrs. Ezeh also raised concerns about how elements of popular culture perpetuated through entertainment platforms contribute to anti-social behaviors among youths. She criticized portrayals glamorizing substance abuse, indecency, and unhealthy lifestyles as detrimental influences on impressionable minds.
She called upon regulatory bodies and policymakers to intervene by scrutinizing content disseminated by the entertainment industry to safeguard vulnerable youth from falling prey to harmful stereotypes promoted through various media channels.
A Call for Collective Action
Highlighting the societal repercussions of unchecked exposure to inappropriate content, Mrs. Ezeh urged stakeholders at all levels – including government agencies, parents, educators, and industry players – to collaborate towards creating a safer online environment conducive to positive growth and development.
She emphasized that collective efforts are vital in shaping responsible attitudes towards mental health awareness among children and adolescents who represent future generations tasked with upholding societal values.
As we navigate this ever-evolving digital landscape where virtual connections intertwine with real-life experiences,
Veronica Ezeh’s advocacy serves as a beacon guiding us towards holistic well-being through mindful engagement with technology
and proactive involvement in shaping healthy digital habits within our families.
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