Teens & Screens: Helping teens navigate the digital world

Article submitted by: Black Dog Institute

Teenagers are spending more time online than ever before. With screens now central to teen life, researchers say this is a crucial moment to help young people build healthier digital habits and make informed choices about how they engage online.

The Black Dog Institute in collaboration with the Bupa Foundation has launched Teens & Screens, an evidence-informed educational program designed for students in Years 7 to 12. The program encourages students to reflect on how their screen use relates to their mood, sleep, and social connections, promoting healthier and more intentional digital habits.

Created from findings of the Future Proofing Study, a large longitudinal study on adolescent mental health in Australia, Teens & Screens equips young people with the tools and knowledge to maximise the positive aspects of screen use while minimising potential harms. It moves beyond traditional messaging about technology use by offering engaging material tailored to resonate with young people.

Why this program matters now

We all know teens are spending more time online than ever before. And while that can raise red flags, the reality is more nuanced. Research shows that although online platforms can pose risks, they also offer meaningful opportunities to support young people’s wellbeing when used with awareness and balance.

Screens aren’t inherently bad. They’re how teens socialise, learn, explore interests, and even seek support. What matters is how screens are used, what content is being consumed or engaged with and how it makes teens feel.

Dr Werner-Seidler emphasised the importance of helping young people create positive online experiences, understand the risks, and learn how to manage them effectively.

What students will learn through the program

Teens & Screens is a ready-to-use program that provides teachers with all the materials needed to deliver an engaging digital literacy and wellbeing lesson to Years 7-12 students. This includes presentation slides, a facilitator guide, student print out, fact sheets, and parent email template.

The 50-minute lesson encourages open discussion and helps students think critically about their online experiences. They learn to identify the benefits and challenges of being online, explore how different types of screen use can impact their wellbeing, and understand how persuasive design techniques are used to keep them engaged. Most importantly, they leave with practical strategies to get the most out of their screen time while reducing potential harms, helping them navigate the digital world with greater confidence.

Download your free resources or if you’d like to have a chat about the best way to implement these programs, or have any questions, please email schools@blackdog.org.au.