Dr. Victor Carrión: Social Media & Mental Health
Collective Trauma
Trauma isn't just an individual experience. We experience it as civilizations, as nations, and as systems. The healing process may be different in scale, but the fundamental steps remain similar. Just as individuals need tools and support for recovery, so do our collective institutions and communities.
The Social Media Crisis
The rise of social media addiction among youth has transformed from a tool into the terrain itself. What was meant to be a platform for sharing real-world experiences has become the primary landscape where many people live their lives. This closed loop of virtual existence prevents genuine relief and healing, creating a mindless compulsion rather than meaningful engagement.
Finding Balance
Like any tool, social media requires boundaries and mindful usage. Parents must establish clear rules - like phones in baskets during dinner - while modeling the behavior they expect from their children. The key is using virtual worlds to enhance real life, not replace it. The surge in mental health concerns among young people underscores this need for balance.
Movement as Medicine
In East Palo Alto schools, a program combining yoga and mindfulness demonstrated remarkable results. When teachers incorporated these practices, disciplinary issues decreased significantly. The benefits of physical activity extend far beyond just fitness - they're crucial tools for emotional regulation and mental wellbeing.
Redefining Success
Our culture's obsession with extreme performers - whether in sports, technology, or business - has warped our understanding of success. True success isn't about becoming the next LeBron James or Elon Musk. It's about belonging to multiple facets of life: being a community member, a student, a family person. When we tie our identity to a single achievement or role, we become vulnerable. Success should be measured by our ability to maintain balance and contribute meaningfully to our communities.