Forsyth County Schools address student mental health and cell phone issues

The Disconnect To Reconnect Town Hall Meeting held on April 14, 2025, in Forsyth County, Georgia, focused on the pressing issues surrounding technology use among students and its impact on mental health. The meeting addressed the challenges parents face in balancing the necessity of technology for education with its negative effects on children’s well-being.

The discussion began with an acknowledgment of the social pressures that compel children to engage with technology, emphasizing the need for resources to help parents navigate these challenges. Participants highlighted the importance of ensuring that technology use is responsible, with a call for companies to take accountability in this regard.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the impact of cell phone usage on student engagement and academic performance. It was noted that cell phones serve as constant distractions during instructional time, hindering students' ability to focus and collaborate effectively. The proposal to implement a phone-free environment during school hours was discussed as a potential solution to enhance student engagement.

However, the conversation quickly shifted to the more critical issue of mental health. The meeting revealed alarming statistics regarding student mental health crises, including 455 reported suicidal ideations and over a thousand assessments related to self-harm or harm to others conducted by school counselors this year alone. The increase in mental health issues was attributed to the pervasive use of cell phones over the past decade, with many students seeking help from counselors and social workers.

The meeting also highlighted the strain on mental health resources within the school system, with social workers overwhelmed by the rising number of mental health referrals and crisis interventions. The discussion underscored the urgent need for additional support and resources to address the growing mental health crisis among students.

In conclusion, the Town Hall Meeting emphasized the dual challenge of managing technology use while safeguarding students' mental health. The need for a comprehensive approach that includes both educational strategies and mental health support was recognized as essential for fostering a healthier learning environment. The meeting concluded with a commitment to further explore these issues and develop actionable strategies to support students and families in navigating the complexities of technology in their lives.