Youth Mental Health: Trends, State-Level Strategies & the Role of Digital Technology

Thursday, April 23, 2026, 14:00 - 15:00 ET (Washington, DC time)

Register now at👉 https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_g_bUxUZ_QbG3XQ6cl3ePsA#/registration

Draft agenda

14:00 – 14:05 Welcome  ● Cait Ellis, MPA, Vice President, NIHCM Foundation

14:05 – 14:20     The State of Youth Mental Health ● Tami D Benton, MD, Psychiatrist-in-Chief & Chair, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia

14:20 – 14:35     Blue Cross NC’s Approach to Youth Mental Health ● Brian Brooks, Vice President, Behavioral Health, Blue Cross NC

14:35 – 14:50     The Role of Social Media & Artificial Intelligence ● Megan Moreno, MD, MPH, MSEd, FAAP, Professor, Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health & Co-Medical Director, Center of Excellence on Social Media and Youth Mental Health, American Academy of Pediatrics

14:50 – 15:00 Questions & Answers

Youth mental health disorders have been on the rise in recent years, with nearly 1 in 3 adolescents (ages 12 to 17) experiencing a mental, emotional, developmental, or behavioral health condition. There has also been growing attention to the potential effects of social media, artificial intelligence (AI), and other digital technologies on youth mental health. Leading experts will examine youth mental health in the United States, efforts to support young people’s mental well-being, the impact of digital technology, and strategies for navigating technology to promote healthy development.

Speakers will discuss:

The latest in youth mental health trends across the country, key drivers contributing to youth mental health concerns, and the potential challenges faced in addressing the growing need for care.

How Blue Cross NC is approaching and supporting youth mental health in its market, including initiatives focused on preventative mental health services, expanded access to care, and collaborative community partnerships. 

The role, both positive and negative, that social media, AI, and other technologies play in shaping youth mental well-being, as well as how key stakeholders can safely and effectively use technology to support youth mental health.