St Peter's News

From our Principal 

Dear Parents, Students and Friends,

Without a doubt one of the more successful policy shifts in recent times at St Peter’s College has been our Mobile Phone policy.  I am proud to say that the central focal point of the policy shift was aimed at improving student outcomes and enhancing the well-being of students. The recent debate on raising the age of access to social media sites highlights the perils our young people are exposed to when accessing the plethora of social media sites available to them.

 

As we navigate the digital age, understanding the role of social media in our teenagers' lives becomes increasingly important. Social media platforms such as YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat are a significant part of daily life for many teens. A 2022 survey revealed that 35% of 13- to 17-year-olds use at least one of these platforms multiple times a day. 

 

Social media offers opportunities for connection and self-expression, crucial for teen development. However, its effects on mental health can be both positive and negative, influenced by various factors such as the content viewed, time spent online, psychological maturity, and personal circumstances.

 

Healthy Social Media Use

 

Social media can provide valuable support networks for teens, especially those who might feel isolated or marginalized. It enables them to:

  • Create online identities and build social networks.
  • Connect with peers who share similar experiences.
  • Access support and information on coping with stress and mental health issues.
  • Participate in moderated forums to discuss topics openly.

These benefits can help teens feel less alone and offer coping mechanisms for those struggling with mental health challenges.

 

Unhealthy Social Media Use

 

Conversely, social media can also have detrimental effects, such as:

  • Distracting from important activities like homework and exercise.
  • Disrupting sleep patterns.
  • Exposing teens to misinformation, cyberbullying, and online predators.
  • Promoting unrealistic body images and lifestyles.
  • Increasing the risk of anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues.

Research indicates that spending over three hours a day on social media is linked to higher risks of mental health concerns. The impact is also shaped by the nature of the content and interactions experienced online.

 

Guidance for Parents

 

To help your teen use social media responsibly, consider the following tips:

 

1. Set Rules and Limits:

  •  Establish clear rules about social media use to ensure it doesn't interfere with essential activities.
  •  Consider setting daily time limits and specific times when social media use is off-limits, such as during meals or an hour before bedtime.

2. Lead by Example:

  •    Follow the rules you set and discuss the consequences of not adhering to them.

3. Manage Behaviours:

  • Address any challenging behaviours related to social media use and collaborate with other parents if necessary.
  • Regularly review your teen's internet history and social media accounts.

4. Turn on Privacy Settings:

  • Help your teen adjust privacy settings to protect personal information.

5. Monitor Accounts:

  • Follow or "friend" your teen on social media to keep an eye on their activity, adjusting the level of monitoring as they mature.

6. Have Regular Conversations:

  • Discuss how social media makes your teen feel and offer guidance on identifying accurate content and understanding unrealistic portrayals of beauty and lifestyle.

7. Be a Role Model:

  • Share your social media habits to set a positive example.

8. Explain Boundaries.

  • Teach your teen about the importance of not gossiping, spreading rumors, or sharing personal information online.

9. Encourage Face-to-Face Interactions:

  • Promote in-person social activities, especially for teens prone to social anxiety.

Seeking Professional Help

 

If you notice symptoms of anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns in your teen related to social media use, consider seeking professional help. Signs to watch for include:

  • An inability to stop using social media despite wanting to.
  • Social media use interfering with school, sleep, or relationships.
  • Excessive time spent online.
  • Dishonesty about social media use.

A mental health professional can provide support and guidance tailored to your teen's needs.

 

Thank you for your continued support in fostering a healthy and balanced environment for your son or daughter and our students.

 

Enjoy the week ahead and remember, your young person needs you.

 

 

 

Mr Chris Black

Principal