The cost of inaction with economist Shamubeel Eaqub

“The most precious resource New Zealand has now is our young people… we want these young people to be as resilient, as capable as possible.” This podcast is brought to you by the B416 team. Content Warning: This episode discusses topics including suicide, mental health, eating disorders, and self-harm. If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out for help - you are not alone. In this episode of One Young Mind, we explore the long-term societal cost of allowing young people to grow up in online environments designed to keep them hooked. Hosts Matilda Green and Dr Maneesh Deva speak with economist Shamubeel Eaqub, who explains why taking upstream action on social-media harm makes economic sense - and how delaying change could carry a very real cost. It’s a candid and thought-provoking conversation exploring: Why prevention works better than crisis response How evidence from phone-free schools offers a blueprint beyond school hours Why marginalised children may stand to benefit most from delaying social media access Why problematic online use needs to be understood more like an addiction The downstream impact of digital childhood on wellbeing and social participation Why waiting for perfect data risks slowing responsible policymaking This episode brings an essential economic lens to the debate - ideal for anyone shaping policy, supporting young people, or working to prevent harm rather than respond to it.New Zealand Helplines:• Lifeline: Call 0800 543 354 or text 4357 (HELP) (available 24/7)• Suicide Crisis Helpline: Call 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO) (available 24/7)• Youth services: (06) 3555 906• What’s Up: Call 0800 942 8787 (11am to 11pm) or webchat (11am to 10.30pm)• Depression helpline: Call 0800 111 757 or text 4202 (available 24/7)• Aoake te Rā – Free, brief therapeutic support service for those bereaved by suicide. Call 0800 000 053.• Helpline: Need to talk? Call or text 1737• The Lowdown: Free text 5626 or visit thelowdown.co.nz• EDANZ (Eating Disorders Association NZ): Visit ed.org.nz for resources and support• If it is an emergency and you feel like you or someone else is at risk, call 111Follow us @b416.nz or find out more at b416.co.nzSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.