LIVE WEBINAR: Exploring the Risks: Social Media and Children's Mental Health
January 26th, 2026, Noon - 1 PM CST
Presented by Sarah Hessenaur, PhD, LCSW, MSW, MBA
and Kellie A Ruelle, MSW
This presentation will explore how technology impacts children, with a focus on the effects of screen addiction on mental health. Overreliance on screens as a distraction, source of entertainment, or emotional escape has become a hazardous trend among children. Screen addiction can hinder brain development, stifle emotional and social growth, disrupt education, and adversely affect physical health. Additionally, it can jeopardize a child's personal safety, exposing them to cyberbullying and inappropriate content. Practical tips for minimizing screen time will be shared, along with resources to help families seeking support.
Sarah L Hessenauer, PhD, LCSW, MSW, MBA is an Assistant Professor of social work and MSW program coordinator at Mount Mary University. She earned her BSW degree in 1990 from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, her MSW in 1991 from UW-Milwaukee, and her PhD in 2011 from Loyola University of Chicago. She has authored and co-authored several social work textbooks with Dr. Zastrow.
Kellie Ruelle, MSW is a graduate of Mount Mary University. She earned her BSW (2021) and MSW (2025) from Mount Mary University. She is passionate about foster care, adoption, and the negative impacts of technology.
1 Continuing Education Hour
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Cost:
Member - $25
Student or Retired Member - $20
Non-Member - $35