Embark Behavioral Health Chief Clinical
Officer Dr. Sharnell Myles
shares warning signs and provides guidance for families
CHANDLER, Ariz., July 11,
2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Embark Behavioral Health, a
leading network of clinics and programs offering premier,
evidence-based mental health treatments for adolescents and young
adults, is bringing attention to "bed rotting," a seemingly
harmless habit that can lead to loneliness and screen addiction,
impacting adolescent mental health this summer. Teenagers who
choose not to pursue meaningful activities or may be unable to
afford these opportunities and social interactions can fall into
these practices and exacerbate existing conditions like anxiety and
depression.
"'Bed rotting' has gone viral on social media as a way to
mentally and emotionally recharge," said Sharnell Myles, chief clinical officer, Embark.
"However, spending extended periods of time in bed is a habit that
can have significant impact on adolescent behavioral and mental
health by leading to increased loneliness or an unhealthy
relationship with technology."
Parents and caregivers should stay aware of the negative effects
of bed rotting, which include staying in bed all day, sleep issues,
social isolation, or changes in mood and behavior. Here are
the warning signs for adolescents who may be struggling this
summer:
- Loneliness includes withdrawal from social activities, changes
in sleeping or eating patterns, irritability, or expressions of
sadness or isolation.
- Screen addiction includes spending excessive time on screens,
neglecting responsibilities, or experiencing sleep issues.
Left unaddressed, the effects of bed rotting can contribute to a
decline in academic performance, changes in behavior, and even
physical health issues. Additionally, increased feelings of
loneliness in teens have been linked to excessive screen time
according to a study published in the Journal of
Adolescence.
There are several ways to support teens engaging in these
activities as a parent or caregiver:
- Establish healthy routines for sleep.
- Provide a supportive home environment and spend quality time
laughing, playing and sharing emotions together.
- Implement boundaries and guidelines around technology use,
including screen time.
- Encourage offline pursuits such as promoting physical
activities and participation in volunteer opportunities, jobs or
groups.
Young adults are particularly vulnerable during the summer due
to a variety of psychological, developmental and environmental
factors.
"Summertime usually means a change in routines and ample free
time, so it's important to create a safe space for your child to
express themselves without fear or judgement," said Myles.
"Approach communication with empathy, understanding and active
listening to help them navigate this summer. Allow your child to
bring their voice and what is important to them to the
conversation."
For more information about Embark Behavioral Health including
programs and treatment locations, visit www.embarkbh.com.
About Embark Behavioral Health
Embark Behavioral
Health is a leading network of clinics and programs offering
premier mental health treatment for adolescents and young adults.
Dedicated to its mission of reversing the trends of adolescent and
young adult anxiety, depression, and suicide by 2028, Embark is
unlike any other behavioral health organization in the United States. Embark offers a full
continuum and spectrum of services, a unique 25-years of
specialization, a deep legacy of serving youth, and a set of
internationally validated outcomes that drive treatment in real
time. For more information about Embark or its treatment programs,
including residential treatment centers, day treatment, partial
hospitalization (PHP) programs, intensive outpatient programs
(IOP), and virtual intensive outpatient programs, visit
embarkbh.com.
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SOURCE Embark Behavioral Health