‘Curious Conversations’ podcast: Abhishek Reddy talks about adolescent suicide, screen time, and sleep
Abhishek Reddy joined Virginia Tech’s “Curious Conversations” to talk about the impact of screen time and time of day on the suicide risk of adolescents. Reddy shared his recent study that examined these two factors, as well as the medicine used, among a group of adolescents who attempted to overdose. He also shared proactive strategies for parents and guardians to help mitigate potential issues as well as some good sleep hygiene practices for people of all ages.
“Curious Conversations” is available on Spotify, Apple, and YouTube.
Takeaways
In examining adolescents who attempted to overdose over a six-month period, Reddy found that two-thirds occurred after 8 p.m. and 3 out of 4 were using a screen – smartphone, tablet, etc. – in the moments prior to taking medication.
The study found over-the-counter and prescription were used at an almost equal rate by subjects attempting to overdose.
Developing a good routine before bed, eliminating screens at least one hour before sleeping, and limiting access to medicine are strategies to minimize risk for adolescents.
About Reddy
Reddy is a faculty member and associate professor in the Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine’s Department of Psychiatry. He works at Carilion Clinic in Roanoke with specialties in child and adolescent psychiatry and sleep medicine.
Learn more
Late-night screen use, easy access to medications tied to teen suicide attempts, study finds
About the podcast
"Curious Conversations" is a series of free-flowing conversations with Virginia Tech researchers that take place at the intersection of world-class research and everyday life. Produced and hosted by Travis Williams, assistant director of marketing and communications for the Office of Research and Innovation, university researchers share their expertise and motivations as well as the practical applications of their work in a format that more closely resembles chats at a cookout than classroom lectures. New episodes are shared each Tuesday.
