Outback Therapeutic Expeditions, which provides an innovative and effective therapeutic experience for teens in crisis, announced today, the publication of a new white paper, “WIRED: Helping Your Teen Unplug from the Digital World.” The 13 page white paper is designed to parents, guardians, teachers, and counselors help a teen who is struggling with excessive and problematic digital media use.
WIRED: Helping Your Teen Unplug from the Digital World
In today’s increasingly digital world, many parents are concerned about the amount of time their teens spend on their tablets, smartphones, video game consoles, and laptops. While it is unrealistic to completely “unplug” and “disconnect” from our electronic devices, there is a point where video game and internet use becomes problematic.
Although some people may debate about whether video game and internet abuse can spiral into a legitimate addiction, under brain scans, both substance abuse addiction and electronics addiction share a similar neurological footprint. Research shows that problematic video game and internet use is harmful to one’s physical and mental health.
The white paper addresses the following topics:
- Tech Overuse Versus Problematic Use, Abuse, and/or Addiction
- Why Some Teens are More Vulnerable to Electronics Abuse/Addiction
- Ways to Help Your Teen with Problematic Electronics Use and/or Abuse
- The Importance of Early Intervention
- Effective Treatment Options for Problematic Electronics Use
- What is Wilderness Therapy and How Does It Help Teens with Problematic Electronics Use?
- How to Support Your Teen Through Electronics Abuse/Addiction Treatment
About Outback Therapeutic Expeditions
Outback Therapeutic Expeditions offers a unique therapeutic experience based on a nomadic and primitive skills model. The soothing rhythms of life in the wilderness provide a catalyst for authentic and lasting change. Each child is matched with a licensed therapist and receives a comprehensive individual treatment plan. Clinical studies confirm that our methods create long-lasting change and emotional healing.
Living in small groups away from the distractions and influences of the outside world, students are able to focus on themselves and the choices that brought them here. The insights and skills that they develop are carried with them when they return to the outside world.
Our Roots and Wings program carves an integral role for each teen’s family as they work through the misunderstandings and pain that brought them to this point. Our three-day Family Expedition allows parents and siblings to join the student in the wilderness for powerful, intensive family therapy. At Outback, we believe that the family is vital to the healing process and plays an important role in bringing about positive change for each child.
