Social Media & Girls’ Mental Health: Keynote Preview with Dr Danielle Einstein
One of Australia’s leading voices on the interception of youth mental health and technology, Dr Danielle Einstein brings both clinical insight and research rigour to the conversation about social media and young people. Ahead of her keynote session at the Educating Girls Symposium in Sydney on 28 April, What Are the Primary Harms of Social Media in Girls—And Can School Programs Make a Difference, we asked Dr Einstein to share her thoughts on prevention, policy, and practical strategies for schools.
What’s the biggest misconception about social media and young people?
There’s a mystique around mental health—and a belief that psychologists alone can fix things. But the problems we’re seeing now are far too widespread. The answer has to be prevention. It’s not enough to say, “This is only a problem for a few, and they’ll get help.” That’s no longer acceptable.
What are three things educators could do right now to improve students’ digital wellbeing?
- Audit device use. Take a clear-eyed look at what actually needs to be delivered online per subject. We’ve shifted heavily toward digital learning without reviewing the impact.
- Manage BYODs properly. Devices brought from home should be under the supervision of the school’s ICT department, with restricted settings. For many parents, these devices have become a major source of conflict.
- Protect offline time. Schoolwork should not be done online during days off, unless there are 100% exceptional circumstances. Rest and recovery matter.
Your book Raising Anxiety explores how well-intended efforts can sometimes backfire. What are some key insights from the book?
Raising Anxiety: Why Our Good Intentions Are Backfiring on Children (And How to Fix It). It’s a practical guide for educators and parents—co-authored with Dr Judith Locke, whose humour helps bring serious ideas to life. We challenge common assumptions and offer concrete steps schools can take to help young people move through worry, manage technology use, and build resilience.
In a few words, how would you describe your session at the Symposium?
I’m aiming to create a deep understanding of how social media impacts girls. I believe in a few surprises—so I won’t give away too much just yet!
What excites you most about speaking at the ICGS Educating Girls Symposium?
The chance to clear up widely held misconceptions about how to support our communities in navigating social media use. It’s time we had a more honest, informed conversation.
Don’t miss Dr Einstein’s powerful, prevention-focused session. Join us on 28 April in Sydney for a program that challenges assumptions and offers practical tools for girls’ schools.