Leading the conversation on digital wellness

In 2024, we expanded our reach and influence through published research, media engagement, and global presentations. Our work appeared in top academic journals and was featured by major outlets including The New York Times, The Atlantic, USA Today, Good Morning America, CBS News, and PBS, influencing global conversations on digital wellness. From exploring the impacts of social gaming to offering guidance on managing teen phone use, our insights have deepened understanding of how technology impacts youth.

At the Digital Wellness Lab, we believe that a healthier digital ecosystem is a collaborative effort. By fostering robust online and in-person discussions and connecting with peers worldwide, we bridged the gap between research, industry, and public understanding, ensuring that our work drives meaningful action in the digital space.

Beyond our publications and media engagements, our team shared their insights at over 20 international conferences and events. From the World Economic Forum in Davos to SXSW EDU 2024, we addressed critical issues such as online safety, youth digital wellbeing, and responsible AI. Through panels, keynotes, and workshops, we reached a diverse audience of policymakers, educators, clinicians, and industry leaders, advancing the conversation on building a healthier digital world for young people.

Beyond the Headlines: What’s to Come in 2025

As we enter the new year, we remain committed to advancing our understanding of digital media’s impact on youth mental, social, and emotional health—and using that insight to drive real change. By sharing our findings with technology and healthcare leaders, educators, and policymakers, we aim to shape a digital ecosystem where young people and their families can navigate technology with intention and balance.

To support this goal, we will launch several Pulse Surveys to examine emerging trends in digital media use and its effects on youth development and wellbeing. We will also introduce a beta version of our Digital Media Use Screener, a tool that enables clinicians to assess patients for Problematic Media Use (PMU). In tandem, our ongoing research will continue to explore social gaming experiences, adolescent social media use, and key risk factors associated with PMU.

Collaboration is at the heart of our work. By engaging with youth, industry leaders, and experts, we ensure our research reflects diverse perspectives and real-world experiences. Our Student Advisory Council amplifies youth voices, while partnerships with Inspired Internet Pledge signatories and advisors strengthen our efforts to promote responsible technology design and use that prioritizes wellbeing.

The path forward demands collective action from researchers, industry leaders, educators, policymakers, clinicians, and families. Guided by science and grounded in practical insights—especially from young people—we can create a digital landscape that fosters growth, connection, and wellbeing.

Your engagement, insights, and collaboration are essential to building a healthier digital future. To learn more about how you can support or actively engage with our work, please email us. Thank you for being part of this journey!