A mental health crisis has been brewing amongst young people since the early 2010s. Rates of self harm, eating disorders, anxiety and depression and suicide have risen sharply amongst Generations Z and Alpha, coinciding with the cultural penetration of social media and the introduction of the front-facing camera on mobile phones. Is that just a coincidence, or is there a deeper connection?
Come and listen in as psychiatrist Glynn Harrison talks with Katharine Hill, speaker and author of ‘Left to their own devices’, about the effect of social media and mobile usage on the minds of young people, the impact on our lives, and whether we can have faith in the future?
Whether you’re worrying about the social media habits of your children or grandchildren, or concerned about the effect that your mobile phone is having on your own brain, join us for #TikTokBoom? an event in three parts: keynote presentation from Professor Glynn Harrison, conversation between Glynn and Katharine Hill, followed by Q&A from our live studio audience.
October 2024
Psychiatrist Glynn Harrison in conversation with author and speaker, Katharine Hill, on finding hope in a mental health crisis linked to social media, me-culture and loss of meaning.
Part 1: Keynote with Glynn Harrison (above)
Part 2: Discussion with Glynn Harrison & Katharine Hill
Part 3: Question & Response with Glynn Harrison, Katharine Hill & Claudia Toma
Glynn Harrison is Emeritus Professor of Psychiatry, University of Bristol UK, where he was a practising consultant psychiatrist and Chair of the Department of Psychiatry. His background is in the epidemiology of mental disorders, especially the link between mental illness and experience of poverty, migration and early life adversity. He has acted as an advisor to the World Health Organisation, the UK Dept Health and is a past President of the International Federation of Psychiatric Epidemiology. He is interested in the interface between mental health, neuroscience and spirituality and now speaks widely on issues related to faith and human flourishing
Katharine Hill is UK Director at Care for the Family, a national charity which aims to strengthen family life and help those who face family difficulties. Formerly a family law solicitor, Katharine transitioned to her current role, where she leverages her expertise and passion for family life
As an established speaker and broadcaster, she has addressed thousands of people both across the UK and internationally on marriage and parenting issues. She has authored several impactful books, including A Mind of Their Own and Left to Their Own Devices, which explore the significant effects of social media on children's mental health. These books provide practical advice and encouragement for parents on managing online safety, cyberbullying and screen time, emphasizing the importance of fostering resilience and emotional intelligence in children.
As a respected voice on family issues, Katharine frequently appears on national media and speaks widely at live events. She leads on Care for the Family's policy agenda representing the organisation at government level. She has participated in advisory panels and policy discussions, and was a member of the board of the International Commission on Couple and Family Relations.
Katharine is married to Richard. They have four grown-up children and seven grandchildren.
Website:
cff.org.uk
katharinehill.co.uk
Katharine’s books are available from Kilfinan Press and Care for the Family.
Claudia is the Media Officer at Teach First - an education charity working in some of the poorest parts of the country to help every child fulfil their potential. Engaging with press, parliamentarians and policymakers, her work focuses on showcasing best practice within the education system and how we provide opportunities for some of the most vulnerable children in society through policy. Prior to this, Claudia worked in political polling and political consultancy.
