Screening of Thought-Provoking Social Media Documentary Sparks Community Discussion

Screening of Thought-Provoking Social Media Documentary Sparks Community Discussion

On October 29, Saint Mary's Hall hosted a screening of the compelling new documentary LIKE. Nearly 100 parents and educators from San Antonio attended the screening.

The LIKE screening was followed by an informative panel discussion featuring local experts such as Award-Winning Producer & Director Scilla Andreen, Program Medical Director for Children's and Partial Hospitalization Services Dr. Soad Michelson (and SMH parent), and Dr. Geoff Gentry from Clarity Child Guidance Center. In addition, the panel included Form 12 student Wilson, who provided a very mature and insightful teenage perspective. When asked about why he thought it was important to show this film, Wilson said, "In an ever changing world, I truly believe it is necessary to bring parents and children together. While there is much difficulty in navigating the realm of social media, I think LIKE serves its purpose in our community by advocating for open communication. As a teenager, I genuinely appreciate this message."

The documentary was a power commentary on the way social media has affected our self-image, our ability to cope with disappointment, and our willingness to explore the world beyond the cell phone. When social media users chase "likes" or seek followers, they lose sight of the fact that their devices are now using them.

What does a film like this teach us? LIKE Director/Producer Scilla Andreen says, "LIKE explains the brain science and design that's at play with regard to why we are so addicted to our phones. Some of the top takeaways for parents and students are the simple and fun tips and tricks you can do to immediately change your relationship with your phone such as going grayscale, turning off notifications from everyone but human beings, charging your phone outside of your room, and only checking social media for 20 minutes or less each time. Social media can be a good thing, but just remember you are in charge of your phone and not the other way around."

October is National Mental Health Awareness month, and the topic of how social media affects our mental health was something that Saint Mary's Hall felt was extremely important. The goal of the screening was to raise awareness about the hidden costs of social media as well as start a conversation about how to ensure our own, and our children's, healthy use of technology.

Saint Mary's Hall is committed to providing parents and students with tools to improve community-wide wellness. The SMH Wellness Program seeks to help each student develop the mindset and skills needed to live a healthy life, now and in the future. At every grade level, students are taught how to care for their bodies and social-emotional skills that promote mental health.