Anxious Mothers, Weak Fathers: A Warning about teens and technology with Johann D’Souza episode artwork

EPISODE · Feb 16, 2026 · 40 MIN

Anxious Mothers, Weak Fathers: A Warning about teens and technology with Johann D’Souza

from The Heidi St. John Podcast · host Heidi St. John

Are we in the middle of a teen mental health crisis—and is technology fueling it? In this powerful conversation, I sit down with clinical psychologist Johan D’Souza to unpack the dramatic rise in anxiety, depression, and suicidality since 2010 and what smartphones are doing to the developing brain. We talk honestly about dopamine, screen addiction, weak boundaries, strong leadership in the home, and what parents can do right now—even if a phone is already in their child’s hand. This isn’t about panic; it’s about courage, clarity, and raising kids who can flourish in a distracted world.Prime Sponsor: No matter where you live, visit the Functional Medical Institute online today to connect with Drs Mark and Michele Sherwood. Go to homeschoolhealth.com to get connected and see some of my favorites items. Use coupon code HEIDI for 20% off!Show mentions: http://heidistjohn.com/mentionsWebsite | heidistjohn.comSupport the show! | donorbox.org/donation-827Rumble | rumble.com/user/HeidiStJohnYoutube | youtube.com/@HeidiStJohnPodcastInstagram | @‌heidistjohnFacebook | Heidi St. JohnX | @‌heidistjohnFaith That Speaks Online CommunitySubmit your questions for Fan Mail Friday | heidistjohn.com/fanmailfriday

Are we in the middle of a teen mental health crisis—and is technology fueling it? In this powerful conversation, I sit down with clinical psychologist Johan D’Souza to unpack the dramatic rise in anxiety, depression, and suicidality since 2010 and what smartphones are doing to the developing brain. We talk honestly about dopamine, screen addiction, weak boundaries, strong leadership in the home, and what parents can do right now—even if a phone is already in their child’s hand. This isn’t about panic; it’s about courage, clarity, and raising kids who can flourish in a distracted world.Prime Sponsor: No matter where you live, visit the Functional Medical Institute online today to connect with Drs Mark and Michele Sherwood. Go to homeschoolhealth.com to get connected and see some of my favorites items. Use coupon code HEIDI for 20% off!Show mentions: http://heidistjohn.com/mentionsWebsite | heidistjohn.comSupport the show! | donorbox.org/donation-827Rumble | rumble.com/user/HeidiStJohnYoutube | youtube.com/@HeidiStJohnPodcastInstagram | @‌heidistjohnFacebook | Heidi St. JohnX | @‌heidistjohnFaith That Speaks Online CommunitySubmit your questions for Fan Mail Friday | heidistjohn.com/fanmailfriday

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Anxious Mothers, Weak Fathers: A Warning about teens and technology with Johann D’Souza

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This episode is 40 minutes long.

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This episode was published on February 16, 2026.

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Are we in the middle of a teen mental health crisis—and is technology fueling it? In this powerful conversation, I sit down with clinical psychologist Johan D’Souza to unpack the dramatic rise in anxiety, depression, and suicidality since 2010 and...

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