Children’s Mental Health in a Digital World: Science, Policy & Practicality

The impact of digital technology and social media on children’s mental health is a topic of global concern, but separating fact from fiction can be challenging.

Join leading experts for a full-day conference in Lecture Theatre 2, New Hunt’s House (Guy’s Campus, Great Maze Pond, London, SE1 9RT) exploring the science, policy and practical strategies surrounding children and young people’s mental wellbeing in a digital world.

What to expect

• Cutting through the noise – regulation, media & responsibility
  Understand how social media regulation is evolving worldwide, the impact of media framing, and how researchers and clinicians can shape public understanding and policy constructively.

• The science of digital technology, social media & young people’s mental health
  A data-driven look at the benefits and harms of digital technology and social media, reviewing the latest research, methodologies and real-world implications for mental health.

• The role of education
  Explore how schools and educators can equip children with digital resilience. Hear about effective initiatives and participate in discussions on what works, what doesn’t, and who should be involved.

• The future of social media & public health approaches
  Consider policy, industry responsibility and multi-pronged public health strategies to protect and support young people while respecting digital rights.

Lunch will be provided, and the day concludes with a drinks reception, providing an opportunity to connect with speakers and fellow attendees.

Confirmed speakers

• Professor Ben Carter, Professor of Medical Statistics at King’s College London

• Professor Rina Dutta, Professor in Psychiatry and Academic Capacity Development at King's College London and Consultant Psychiatrist at South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust

• Professor David Veale, Professor in Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapies at King’s College London and Consultant Psychiatrist at South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust

• Professor Johnny Downs, Professor of Child Psychiatry and Health Informatics at King’s College London and CAMHS Digital Lab Lead

• Dr Nicky Kalk, Adjunct Senior Lecturer at King’s College London and Consultant Addictions Psychiatrist at South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust

• Dr Danielle Einstein, Clinical Psychologist and Adjunct Fellow at Macquarie University, Australia

• Dr Shelly Acland, Clinical Psychologist and School Counselling Lead at Loreto Normanhurst Boarding School for Girls (Sydney, NSW)

Full programme and speakers will be announced in the coming months.

This conference is for educators, mental health professionals, youth workers, researchers, clinicians, policymakers, funders and charities interested in the intersection of technology and children’s mental health.

It is funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research Maudsley Biomedical Research Centre as part of the Trials, Genomics & Prediction research theme.

Room capacity is limited – we encourage you to arrive in good time on the day to avoid disappointment.

We will be taking photographs and filming at the event. If you do not wish to be photographed, please let a member of staff know on the day.

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Host or Publisher NIHR Maudsley BRC