The acceptance of one of our poster presentations related to the Social Media First Aid Program by a university represents a significant milestone for our organization. This momentous achievement marks the first time our innovative work has been recognized at such a prestigious academic level. We are particularly thrilled that the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) Prism Symposium has chosen to highlight the importance and value of our initiative, further affirming the relevance of addressing mental and behavioral health challenges in the context of social media.

Social media has become an integral part of modern life, influencing how people communicate, learn, and connect. However, its pervasive nature also presents significant risks to mental and behavioral health, particularly among youth and vulnerable populations. The Social Media First Aid Program aims to mitigate these risks by offering immediate, research-backed strategies to address and reduce harm, such as cyberbullying, misinformation, and emotional distress. The program's acceptance at UCSF not only validates our efforts but also amplifies the importance of addressing these pressing issues within an academic and professional framework.

This achievement would not have been possible without the collective efforts of a dedicated and talented team. We owe a special debt of gratitude to our inaugural Social Media Research Institute (SMRI) Fellow, Hannah G. Scheffer-Wentz, M.A., for her unwavering dedication and significant contributions to this initiative. Her meticulous research and tireless commitment have been instrumental in advancing the program to its current state. Hannah’s expertise and passion exemplify the kind of leadership needed to tackle the complex challenges posed by social media’s impact on mental health.

We also extend our deepest thanks to Jeff Shires, Ph.D., for his invaluable oversight and mentorship throughout the project. Dr. Shires’ guidance ensured that our work was rigorous, impactful, and aligned with the highest academic standards. His insights and feedback were critical to the development and refinement of the program’s framework, ensuring its applicability and relevance in real-world contexts.

In addition, we are profoundly grateful to Jonathan M. Wicks, LCSW, for providing essential clinical review and for his pivotal role in shaping the program’s structure. His expertise in clinical social work brought a vital perspective to the initiative, grounding it in practical, evidence-based approaches. Jonathan’s contributions ensured that the Social Media First Aid Program not only addresses theoretical concerns but also offers actionable solutions to those in need.

We must also recognize @BrandonRussell for his exceptional work in presenting this project at the UCSF Prism Symposium. Brandon’s ability to effectively communicate the program’s goals, findings, and implications was key to its successful reception. His presentation showcased the collaborative effort behind the program and highlighted its potential to drive meaningful change in how society navigates the challenges of social media.

This collaboration serves as a testament to the power of interdisciplinary teamwork and collective support. By bringing together experts from diverse fields, we have been able to create a comprehensive program that addresses a complex and multifaceted issue. The recognition of our work by UCSF underscores the importance of partnerships and shared vision in advancing innovative research and solutions.

Moving forward, we remain steadfast in our mission to address social media’s impact on mental and behavioral health through evidence-based interventions and educational initiatives. The acceptance of our work by a leading institution like UCSF motivates us to continue pushing boundaries and exploring new ways to promote healthier social media usage. This milestone is not just a reflection of our past efforts but also a call to action for the future.

In conclusion, the acceptance of the Social Media First Aid Program at the UCSF Prism Symposium is a landmark achievement for our organization. It validates the hard work and dedication of our team and highlights the critical importance of addressing social media’s influence on mental health. By leveraging collective expertise and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, we are making significant strides toward a future where social media is a tool for connection and empowerment rather than a source of harm. This milestone is a reminder of what we can achieve together and a powerful motivator to continue our work in this vital area.

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