In Roanoke, Virginia, the heartbreaking story of Autumn Bushman, a vibrant 10-year-old fourth-grade cheerleader from Salem, has drawn attention to the critical issues of bullying and the impact of screen time on mental health. Autumn was known for her energetic personality and love for performing, often turning her living room into a dance floor, as her mother, Summer Bushman, fondly recalled during an interview with CBS News. However, beneath her bright exterior lay a painful struggle, as Autumn faced relentless bullying at school due to her braces.
Despite her cheerful demeanor, Autumn endured bullying that extended beyond the schoolyard and into her home via her smartphone. Summer shared that the abuse continued online, profoundly affecting her daughter's mental well-being. Tragically, on March 21, Autumn died by suicide in her bedroom, with reports indicating she was using her phone just before the incident. Summer mentioned that Autumn often took her phone to bed, insisting it was necessary for her alarm, despite Summer's concerns.
A recent study conducted by researchers at Virginia Tech has highlighted the alarming correlation between nighttime screen use and suicide attempts among teenagers. The research focused on children aged 12 to 17 who had been hospitalized after attempting suicide by overdosing. The findings revealed that approximately two-thirds of these incidents occurred after 8 p.m., with nearly three out of four individuals using screens right before their attempts. Dr. Abhishek Reddy, a clinical psychiatrist and professor at the Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine, expressed concerns about the disruptive nature of screen use before bedtime. He emphasized the dangers for bullied children who may find themselves isolated at night, with limited access to supportive adults.
In light of these findings, Dr. Reddy advises parents to consider limiting smartphone access at night, promoting good sleep hygiene, and reducing the availability of over-the-counter medications in the home. He noted that during the day, children have opportunities to communicate with counselors, family, and friends, but those support systems are often unavailable at night when they are left alone with their thoughts and screens.
Reflecting on her daughter's passing, Summer Bushman shared the profound pain of losing Autumn, stating, "I come in here and I think, you know, it's been six months since she's been gone...I have to go the rest of my life without seeing her again." Summer deeply regrets allowing Autumn to have a smartphone at such a young age, particularly at night. She expressed her sorrow over the milestones she will never witness, such as Autumn's homecoming, prom, or wedding day. This tragic story serves as a poignant reminder of the vital need for awareness and action regarding the effects of bullying and screen time on young lives.
