S12 EP14: Algorithms Are Here To Stay. How to Protect Your Kids.

Concerned about screen time—both your kids' and your own? Perhaps you're navigating the decision of when to give your child a phone, or maybe you're rethinking past choices. While we all strive for improvement in managing screen time, our aim isn't to condemn technology or advocate for device-free living.

Today, we welcome Dr. Ryan Sultan, an internationally recognized, double board-certified psychiatrist who directs the Sultan Mental Health Informatics and Adaptation Lab at Columbia University. Dr. Sultan offers expert guidance on discussing algorithms and short-form content with your children, fostering independent thinking. We'll also delve into the spread of misinformation and reactionary content, as well as the correlation between screen time and depression. Tune in for his practical advice on immediate steps you can take to help your kids gain better control over their screen time, even if they're already knee deep.

(00:00:58) Welcome Dr. Ryan Sultan to the podcast.

(00:04:25) If you only get one thing out of this conversation, THIS is it.

(00:09:28) What is actually happening in the brain when we're using our phones? 

(00:15:27) Talking to our kids about algorithms.

(00:21:20) When to introduce screens to kids and what age to give a phone.

(00:26:16) Neurodivergence and devices: a higher risk group.

(00:30:12) Heavy social media use and depression, anxiety,and suicidal ideation.

(00:33:31) Multiplayer video games: are they social media?

(00:36:10) Setting boundaries: a medium between doing nothing and taking it all away.

(00:43:28) Sultan Lab Big Data for social media and mental health guidelines.

(00:48:18) Parents, we need regulation and it’s NOT impossible.

(00:53:42) Summary and what to implement in your household right now to get better control over screen time.

(00:56:00) Where to find Dr. Ryan Sultan.

Integrative Psychiatry is a psychiatry practice that takes a holistic, collaborative approach to mental health care. The Columbia-trained clinical team provides expert, evidence-based treatment for ADHD, anxiety, depression, substance use, eating disorders, and other mental health conditions. The clinicians combine psychotherapy, research-supported psychotropic medications, and expertise as adult, adolescent, and child psychiatrists to deliver patient-centered care that meets each individual’s unique needs—supporting long-term mental well-being and overall wellness.

The practice is led by Dr. Ryan Sultan, an internationally recognized, double board-certified psychiatrist. He also serves as an Assistant Professor of Clinical Psychiatry at Columbia University, where he leads the Sultan Mental Health Informatics and Adaptation Lab.

To learn more, visit Integrative Psychiatry or Sultan Lab.

 References:

Sultan, R. S. (2017). Off-Label Prescribing of Antipsychotics for Youths: Who Should Be Treated? Psychiatric Times, 34(9), 26.

Sultan, R. S., Liu, S. M., Hacker, K. A., & Olfson, M. (2021). Adolescents with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: Adverse Behaviors and Comorbidity. Journal of Adolescent Health, 68(2), 284-291.

Sultan, R. S., Saunders, D. C., & Veenstra-VanderWeele, J. (2025). Protective Effects of ADHD Medication on Real-World Outcomes. JAMA Psychiatry.

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