A leader from the Vault recently presented to the Clinton Rotary Club about the effect social media has on children and teenagers.

Tammy Wilson, Executive Director of the Vault in Clinton, reports her presentation was based on research as well as working with local students at the Vault. She notes teenagers can develop mental health issues due to devoting too much time to social media.

Many problems with social media stem from it showing a highlight reel of someone's life. Seeing only positive aspects of someone's life can make teens jealous of others. Wilson gives an example from her research of what social media learned from quitting social media.

Wilson indicates The Vault has helped several young people dealing with mental health to either take a break from social media or delete their accounts completely. She notes they feel happier and can focus more on what matters to them.

Wilson encourages parents to talk to their children about social media and the effect it is playing on their mental health. If they report or are showing signs of depression or anxiety, Wilson says talking to a mental health professional can help.