Communities everywhere are asking the same question right now: How do we better support youth mental health in the digital age?
According to a report from the Nebraska Department of Education and the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, more than a quarter of Nebraska high school students in 2023 reported feeling sad or hopeless almost every day for at least two weeks within the past year. Simultaneously, youth nationwide are financing more time on smartphones and social media than ever before, raising concerns linked to anxiety, depression, sleep disruption, and issues with self-image.
For Clarkson Institute, whose mission is to help make Nebraska the healthiest state in the nation, promoting open and honest conversations about mental health—particularly among young people—is fundamental to their work. As part of this initiative, Clarkson Institute has launched a student script competition aimed at depicting how smartphones and digital life influence the experiences of young people today.
In collaboration with The Glowmedia Project, this competition invited Nebraska middle and high school students aged 13–19 to express their perspectives through storytelling. The winning script, authored by Auburn High School junior Beau Thomas, was transformed into a professionally produced short film titled “Disconnected.”
This compelling project offers a youth-centered lens to explore the hurdles young people face in an increasingly connected world and emphasizes the need to preserve a balance between digital interactions and authentic real-life relationships.
A Community Conversation
Clarkson Institute encourages the community to further this dialogue at the upcoming event titled “Connected & Resilient: A Community Conversation on Youth Mental Health,” scheduled for March 16. This evening event will unite parents, educators, health experts, and community leaders in a comprehensive discussion about the connections between youth mental health and technology while exploring actionable methods to cultivate healthier digital habits.
The evening will commence with a screening of “Disconnected.” This film narrates the experience of a high school student attempting to maintain connections following a personal tragedy. In his search for comfort in digital spaces, the narrative illustrates how technology can inadvertently supplant genuine human interactions.
The film raises critical discussions regarding emerging technologies, particularly the increasing presence of AI in the lives of young people. While such digital tools can provide support, the storyline unduly emphasizes that authentic human connections remain irreplaceable.
Expert Perspectives and Youth Voice
Following the film presentation, a panel discussion will delve into the connections between social media, AI chatbots, youth mental health, and storytelling. The panel comprises:
* Trish Glowacki, Founder and Executive Producer, Glowmedia
* Adam Vinter, Education Outreach Manager at Common Sense Media (and Omaha Public Schools)
* Kevin Kaminski, LIMHP and mental health therapist at Creighton Prep
* Beau Thomas, student writer of “Disconnected”
Together, these panelists will share insights deriving from their expertise across education, mental health, media, and youth perspectives. This dialogue will connect the film’s themes with the genuine challenges young individuals face in today’s world.
Moving from Concern to Action
The event will conclude with a keynote address from Dawson Kelly of Project Reboot. A student at the University of California, Berkeley, and a national advocate for healthier technology use, Kelly collaborates with young individuals to assist them in reclaiming their time and fostering more intentional relationships with technology. His presentation will highlight practical strategies for families, schools, and communities aimed at bolstering youth mental health and nurturing healthier digital habits.
Building a Healthier Future for Young People
While discussions surrounding youth mental health can sometimes seem daunting, the goal of Connected & Resilient is not to induce alarm but to empower participants. Research consistently indicates that supportive relationships, transparent dialogue, and community engagement can significantly affect how young people navigate contemporary pressures. By joining forces with youth voices, expert insights, and community discussions, the event aspires to enhance comprehension about the digital realm young individuals inhabit and guide adults in fostering navigation through it with assurance, balance, and resilience.
Community members interested in attending are encouraged to register early. Seating is limited to 250 guests, and registration is essential.
“Connected & Resilient: A Community Conversation on Youth Mental Health”
When: Monday, March 16, 2026
Time: 6-9 p.m.
Where: Film Streams Dundee (4952 Dodge St., Omaha)
How: Reserve your seat
To learn more about Clarkson Institute, visit www.clarksoninstitute.org
