Youth at the Center—Shaping Healthier Digital Spaces

At the Community Service Board of Middle Georgia (CSBMG), we know that today’s youth are deeply impacted by their digital environments. That’s why we’re excited to highlight key takeaways from the Beyond the Likes: Social Media, Mental Health & You Virtual Youth Forum, hosted by the Center of Excellence in early March.

The event brought together 45 youth, ages 14 to 25, from across the country—and was largely led by young people themselves through the Youth Advisory Panel (YAP). Participants explored the complex relationship between social media and mental health while also building public speaking and leadership skills.

A message that resonated strongly with CSBMG’s mission is the importance of youth autonomy. Attendees shared how they use tools like content filters and platform settings to manage their mental health, emphasizing the need for adults to trust and support these decisions. As one teen put it, “It’s important to me to tailor my social media to things that serve me.”

At CSBMG, we are committed to continuing conversations like these within the communities we serve across our sixteen counties, empowering youth as leaders in their own mental wellness journey.

Citation:
American Academy of Pediatrics. (2025, March). Beyond the Likes Virtual Youth Forum. Center of Excellence. https://www.aap.org/socialmedia