Thanksgiving, Screens, and Mental Health: Finding Balance This Holiday

Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, togetherness, and reflection. Yet screens can quietly overshadow these moments in our digital world. This concern grows when we look at rising rates of screen time among children and teenagers.

Rising Screen Time and Mental Health Concerns

Recent data shows that 50.4% of teens aged 12–17 spend four or more hours daily on screens outside of school. Certain groups, such as Black non-Hispanic teens, reach 60.4% (CDC, 2023). Alongside this, mental health challenges are on the rise. Among teens using screens for four or more hours a day, 27.1% report anxiety symptoms and 25.9% report depression symptoms. These rates more than double those of teens who use screens for less than four hours.

Why It’s Not Just About the Hours

The content teens consume and how they interact with technology also matter. Social media can create a cycle of comparison, especially during holidays when “perfect” moments flood our feeds. This can leave young users feeling left out or inadequate. Bright visuals, autoplay videos, and endless notifications add to emotional overload and disrupt sleep patterns, further affecting mental health.

A Unique Chance to Disconnect

Thanksgiving offers the perfect opportunity to set boundaries around screen use. This doesn’t mean banning technology entirely. Instead, use it wisely so it doesn’t take away from what matters most.

• Tech-Free Zones: Keep devices off the dining table to foster deeper conversations during meals.
• Screen-Free Activities: Suggest family games, shared stories of gratitude, or a group walk to encourage real-life connection.
• Meaningful Use: When screens are necessary—like video calls to distant relatives—use them intentionally as tools rather than distractions.

Leading by Example

Children learn from what adults do. When parents and caregivers put their devices aside and engage fully, they show the importance of mindfulness and presence. The holiday season often pressures people to create “perfect” moments to share online, but true beauty lies in imperfect, real-life experiences.

Embrace Imperfection and Togetherness

By balancing screen time and prioritizing offline connections, families can protect mental health, strengthen relationships, and build lasting memories. Moments that truly matter are often the ones lived, not posted.

How will you balance screen time and family connection this Thanksgiving? Share ideas and join the conversation.