Mental Health Goes to School

E31: Cell Phones and AI in the Classroom

EPISODE SUMMARY In Episode 31, Dr. Candida Fink and Jo-Ann Berry tackle the complex and evolving role of technology in the classroom. They discuss the growing movement toward "phone-free" schools, examining the tension between the potential benefits of reduced distractions and the practical challenges of enforcement. The conversation also shifts to the transformative power of Generative AI, with Jo sharing firsthand accounts of how tools like Gemini are becoming essential "thought partners" for students with learning differences. Together, they explore how educators can move away from a culture of restriction toward one of intentional, supportive technology use. KEY POINTS & HIGHLIGHTS * The Phone-Free School Debate: Schools are increasingly implementing bans to reclaim student focus, but the practical reality of managing "thousands of phones" remains a major hurdle for administrators. * AI as a Cognitive Tool: Generative AI is shifting from a feared "cheating tool" to a powerful executive functioning aid, helping students brainstorm, organize thoughts, and break down complex tasks. * The "Thought Partner" Concept: Jo describes AI not as a replacement for work, but as a collaborator that helps students move past the "blank page" paralysis often associated with ADHD and learning disabilities. * Safety vs. Distraction: While parents often want students to have phones for safety reasons, the constant pull of social media and notifications creates a significant "switching cost" that hinders deep learning. * Modeling Digital Habits: The hosts emphasize that adults must model healthy technology use rather than just imposing bans, acknowledging that phone addiction is a systemic challenge for all ages. TAKEAWAYS & PRACTICAL TIPS * For Educators: Instead of banning AI, teach students how to use it for "low-stakes" brainstorming or outlining to build confidence in their writing process. * For Parents: Understand that the push for phone-free environments is about creating a "sacred space" for learning, even if it feels inconvenient for immediate communication. * For Students: Experiment with using AI tools to summarize long texts or generate "to-do" lists for projects to help manage executive functioning demands. * Incremental Implementation: Schools can try "phone-free" zones or specific times (like lunch or transition periods) rather than an all-or-nothing approach to build community buy-in. RESOURCES MENTIONED Gemini (Google AI): Discussed as a tool for students to use as a brainstorming partner. Yondr Pouches: Mentioned as a common physical solution for locking away phones during the school day. The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt: Referenced (implicitly) in the context of the national movement toward phone-free schools and the impact of technology on youth mental health. CONNECT WITH US We would love to hear how your school is handling the phone and AI revolution! Website: MentalHealthGoesToSchool.com [http://MentalHealthGoesToSchool.com] Social Media: Follow us for updates on "good things" from our travels and classroom insights. TIMELINE * [00:00] Intro: Welcome to Episode 31. * [02:45] The "Great Phone Ban": Current trends in school policies across the country. * [06:30] The distraction factor: How "switching costs" impact a student's ability to focus. * [10:15] Parents and safety: The conflict between home communication and school focus. * [14:50] AI in the classroom: Moving from fear of cheating to embracing support. * [19:20] Case study: How Jo uses AI as a "thought partner" for students with ADHD. * [24:10] The future of education: Why we need to teach students "how to learn" with these tools. * [27:35] "One Good Thing": Celebrating our trip to Iceland—the food, the people, and the geothermal pools. If you enjoy our content, please like and follow - and review if you can!

E30: Screening the Risks—Addiction vs. Screen Time

In this episode of Mental Health Goes to School, hosts Candida Fink and Jo-Ann Berry dive into the complex and often misunderstood relationship between children's screen time and their mental health. They explore a recent longitudinal study and discuss why the focus is shifting from total hours spent online to the nature of "addictive use." The conversation covers the developmental vulnerabilities of the adolescent brain, the impact of sleep disruption on learning, and the importance of teaching digital literacy. Summary The episode centers on a New York Times article discussing a study of children aged 10 to 14, which suggests that "addictive use"—the inability to stop using a device—is a more significant risk factor for mental health issues than total screen time alone. Candida and Jo-Ann break down the biological and social reasons why teenagers are particularly susceptible to the "hooks" of social media and gaming algorithms. They also explore the ripple effects of screen-related sleep deprivation on classroom performance and emotional regulation. Key Takeaways & Practical Tips Addiction Over Duration: It’s not just about how many hours kids spend on screens; it’s about their ability to disengage. Look for signs of "addictive use," such as irritability when forced to put the phone away or choosing screens over essential activities like sleep. The Developing Brain: Adolescents have a highly active "go" system (impulse/reward) but an under-developed "stop" system (frontal lobe). This makes them biologically more vulnerable to addictive algorithms. Prioritize Sleep: Screen use often leads to sleep deprivation, which significantly impairs a student's ability to learn new content and regulate anxiety. A tired brain has a much harder time accessing newly learned emotional coping skills. Digital Literacy: Help children understand that their "attention is the commodity." Teaching them how algorithms work can help them become more conscious users rather than passive products of the platform. Wait Until 8th: The hosts discuss the benefits of delaying social media access until at least age 13 or 14 to allow for more brain maturation and the development of in-person social skills. Resources Mentioned New York Times Article: "Real Risk to Youth Mental Health Is Addictive Use, Not Screen Time Alone, Study Finds. [https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/18/health/youth-suicide-risk-phones.html?searchResultPosition=1]” by Ellen Barry Wait Until 8th [https://www.waituntil8th.org/]: A movement encouraging parents to delay giving children smartphones until 8th grade. AAP (American Academy of Pediatrics) Screentime Guidance and references [https://www.aap.org/en/patient-care/media-and-children/center-of-excellence-on-social-media-and-youth-mental-health/qa-portal/qa-portal-library/qa-portal-library-questions/screen-time-guidelines/] Connect With Us We want to hear your thoughts! Have you noticed a difference between "screen time" and "addictive use" in your home or classroom? Website: Mental Health Goes to School [http://mentalhealthgoestoschool.com] Social Media: Follow us and join the conversation on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@MentalHealthGoestoSchool] and Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/mentalhealthgoestoschool/]. Feedback: If you love the show, please leave us a review or an emoji on your favorite podcast platform! If you have concerns, email us directly through our website so we can chat. Episode Timeline 00:00 – Saturday morning greetings and the "non-gardening" garden (grapevines and concrete). 04:30 – Diving into the New York Times article: Screen time vs. addictive use. 06:15 – Understanding the ABCD study: Tracking kids from age 10 to 14. 08:45 – The biological "hook": Why the adolescent brain struggles to resist addictive content. 12:20 – Social feedback loops and the "Confirmation Bias" of Instagram and TikTok. 15:00 – The Sleep Connection: How screen-induced exhaustion affects the classroom and anxiety. 18:30 – Content matters: Gaming vs. Social Media vs. Video. 22:00 – Policy and Regulation: Cell phone bans in schools and the Australian age-limit model. 25:40 – The Myth of Multitasking: Why a phone on the desk is a distraction even when it's off. 28:15 – AI in the Office: The pitfalls of AI medical scribes and "hallucinated" diagnoses. 33:50 – Final thoughts and how to support the podcast. If you enjoy our content, please like and follow - and review if you can!

E29: Understanding SSRIs and Ketamine in Mental Health

In this episode, Jo-Ann Berry (Special Educator) and Dr. Candida Fink (Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist) explore the science and clinical use of two prominent mental health treatments: SSRIs and Ketamine. They break down how these medications work, their common side effects, and the importance of professional medical supervision—especially for adolescents in a school setting. KEY POINTS & TAKEAWAYS SSRIS (SELECTIVE SEROTONIN REUPTAKE INHIBITORS) * Mechanism: SSRIs work in the synapses between brain cells, blocking the "vacuum cleaner" (transporter) that reabsorbs serotonin into the first cell, making more serotonin available for the receptors in the second cell. * Not Instant: These medications are not a "quick fix." It can take several weeks to a few months to see their full effect. * Gradual Dosing: Treatment typically begins with a low dose and is gradually increased, which adds to the time before benefits are felt. KETAMINE * Background: Originally approved as a general anesthetic and for pain management, it has been found effective for treatment-resistant depression in adults. * Rapid Response: Unlike SSRIs, intravenous ketamine can produce a very rapid antidepressant response. * Supervised Use: Ketamine and its nasal spray version, Esketamine, must be administered in specialized clinical settings where patients can be monitored for several hours. PRACTICAL TIPS & SIDE EFFECTS * Common SSRI Side Effects: Early, temporary side effects can include nausea, diarrhea, headache, tiredness, or lightened sleep. * The "Paradoxical Reaction": In young people, there is a small risk of feeling worse (increased anxiety or irritability) when starting SSRIs, which requires close monitoring. * Patience and Communication: It is vital for patients and caregivers to maintain frequent communication with their prescribing doctor and inform school nurses of any new medication. * Never Stop Suddenly: Patients should never stop taking SSRIs abruptly without medical supervision due to the risk of withdrawal. RESOURCES Website: mentalhealthgoestoschool.com [http://mentalhealthgoestoschool.com] Upcoming Topic: Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) as another intervention for treatment-resistant depression. AACAP (American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry) Medication Guides [https://www.aacap.org/AACAP/Families_Youth/Parents_Medication_Guides/AACAP/Families_and_Youth/Family_Resources/Parents_Medication_Guides.aspx?hkey=c5ad9d72-b5db-4994-b3ab-96fe5350439a] Study regarding ketamine treatment for depression in youth ages 18-25 [https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10399094/] CONNECT WITH US Like, Follow, and Review: Please interact with us on your favorite podcast platform or our website to suggest topics or ask questions. TIMELINE & TIMESTAMPS [00:00] – Introduction and the New York heatwave. [01:40] – Defining SSRIs and how they function in the brain's synapses. [04:15] – Why SSRIs take time to work and the importance of patient patience. [06:20] – Common and temporary side effects of starting SSRIs. [07:45] – More serious risks: Paradoxical reactions and suicidal ideation in young people. [12:35] – Addressing the stigma and misconceptions about mental health medication. [15:15] – Introduction to Ketamine: From anesthesia to treatment-resistant depression. [18:40] – The rapid effect of Ketamine vs. SSRIs. [21:10] – Side effects of Ketamine, including dissociation. [23:30] – The importance of school communication regarding student medication. [26:50] – Closing thoughts and teaser for a future episode on TMS. If you enjoy our content, please like and follow - and review if you can!

E28: Top Tips for Student Wellbeing

Co-Hosts: Jo-Ann Berry (Special Educator and Dr. Candida Fink (Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist) THE BIG PICTURE In this episode, Jo-Ann and Candida distill years of experience in the classroom and the clinic into their "Top 3" recommendations for supporting the mental health of teens and young adults. They explore the critical intersection of education and psychiatry, offering actionable advice for parents and educators navigating the teen mental health crisis. KEY TAKEAWAYS Jo-Ann’s Top 3 (The Educator’s Perspective) ● Prioritize Sleep: Sleep isn't just about rest; it’s the foundation for cognitive function and mood regulation. ● Limit Screen Time: Setting a "shutoff time" before bed is essential for both sleep hygiene and making room for "real life" interactions. ● Move & Go Outside: Encouraging students to "touch grass" and incorporate physical movement helps break the cycle of digital burnout. Dr. Fink’s Top 3 (The Clinician’s Perspective) ● Active Listening: Create space for kids to talk without immediately jumping in to fix or "tell." Be present rather than just preparing your next response. ● Emotional Validation: Respect their feelings, even if the trigger seems trivial to an adult. Validation is the necessary starting point for any productive movement forward. ● Collaboration Over Control: As kids grow, the goal should shift from managing their behavior to solving problems with them to build independence. EPISODE TIMELINE ● [00:00] – Introduction: The mission of Mental Health Goes to School. ● [01:48] – Bridging the gap: Lack of resources for the 12–22 age group. ● [03:16] – Backstory: From college theater friends to professional collaborators. ● [07:47] – Jo-Ann’s recommendations: Sleep, screens, and movement. ● [09:25] – Dr. Fink’s recommendations: Listening, validation, and collaboration. ● [12:56] – How to support the show and engage with the community. ● [14:17] – "One Good Thing": Celebrating new grandbabies and the joys of grandparenting. Connect & Resources ● Website: mentalhealthgoestoschool.com [http://mentalhealthgoestoschool.com] ● YouTube: Mental Health Goes to School Channel ● Support the Show: Please Like, Rate, and Review on your favorite podcast platform—even a single emoji helps us grow! *Show notes generated by Gemini AI and edited by humans If you enjoy our content, please like and follow - and review if you can!

E27: "Have We Been Thinking About ADHD All Wrong?"

In this episode, we dig into an April 13, 2025, article in the New York Times Magazine by journalist Paul Tough. Bringing together perspectives as a clinician and a special educator, we consider the article’s point of view regarding ADHD. Jo-Ann and Candida explore the evolving understanding of ADHD, exploring its definitions, the implications of overdiagnosis and underdiagnosis, and the role of medication as a treatment tool. From our vantage points in the classroom and through consulting with families and schools, we discuss the importance of environmental adjustments in educational settings and the need for flexibility in teaching strategies to support students with ADHD, while acknowledging the challenges of implementing these approaches. Our conversation also highlights real-life applications and strategies for managing ADHD in high schoolers and adults, showcasing the multifaceted nature of the disorder and the various approaches to support individuals affected by it. References https://www.nytimes.com/2025/04/13/magazine/adhd-medication-treatment-research.html?searchResultPosition=2 [https://www.nytimes.com/2025/04/13/magazine/adhd-medication-treatment-research.html?searchResultPosition=2] WHO Information Sheet on ADHD  https://iris.who.int/bitstream/handle/10665/364129/WHOEMMNH214E-eng.pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=y [https://iris.who.int/bitstream/handle/10665/364129/WHOEMMNH214E-eng.pdf?isAllowed=y&sequence=1] Keywords  ADHD  ADHD Medication  Mental health Child Development  Child Psychiatry Student Success Learning Strategies  If you enjoy our content, please like and follow - and review if you can!