Break Free, Reclaim Life

Mission Bay High students, it's time to see the true cost of endless scrolling. Discover how disconnecting from your phone can reconnect you to real life, health, and happiness. Join our movement to take control and thrive beyond the screen.

Our Campaign Initiatives

From a naming brainstorm at a talk

What Is Phone Addiction

Phone addiction is a behavioral addiction (similar to compulsive shopping or gambling) where frequent phone use triggers dopamine and reinforces a compulsive “check and scroll” cycle. Over time, this dependence can be linked to higher anxiety, depression, and loneliness, especially when the phone becomes a primary coping tool.

Working on a project for my school’s track team on a summer morning. I noticed the sun was perfectly angled to expand the shadows of the runners into full size. I launched my Mavic Pro to 300 ft. and made them run in arrow shape.

Which I was able to capture this interesting overhead shot of them running and their shadows be an identical profile shot of them.

Effects of Phone Addiction

Phone addiction can reduce attention span and focus, making it harder to concentrate on schoolwork or conversations. It can also increase anxiety and sleep disruption (especially from blue light), while contributing to social isolation and physical strain like eye strain, headaches, and poor posture.

Ways to Reduce Screen Time

Reduce screen time by turning off non-essential notifications and replacing mindless scrolling with hobbies or activities that keep you engaged offline. Set clear “screen-free” times, like during meals and 30 minutes before bed, and involve friends or family by planning hangouts without phones.

Disconnect to Reconnect!

Join the movement!

Team

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Matthew Pilger

Chief Creative & Digital Officer

Matthew combines technical skill with a focus on public health determinants to challenge the normalization of constant connectivity. He plays a key role in crafting the campaign's visual narrative, ensuring the message of "Disconnect to Reconnect" resonates through impactful, ethical storytelling.

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Avery Brossard

Chief Community Engagement Officer

Avery focuses on reaching the target population at Mission Bay High and ensuring the campaign's message is accessible to everyone. They coordinate outreach efforts and connect students with resources to support healthier screen habits.

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Kaya Francisco

Chief Educational Content Officer

Kaya is responsible for developing the campaign's educational materials, designing frameworks that help students understand the impact of screen time. She translates important information into engaging and relatable content for her peers.

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Elizabeth Haffey

Chief Research & Analysis Officer

Elly oversees the campaign's data collection and analysis, ensuring the surveys provide valuable insights into student screen habits. She focuses on understanding the patterns of screen use among students and how the campaign's message resonates with them.

Reclaim Your Time, Reconnect with Life

Schedule a session to discover how small changes can lead to meaningful connections beyond your screen.

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Frequently Asked Questions


The Hidden Cost of Scrolling is a public health campaign aimed at reducing the time Mission Bay High School students spend on their phones by educating them about the negative effects of excessive phone use and promoting healthier habits.


Excessive phone use can lead to issues such as sleep disturbances, anxiety, depression, reduced attention span, and decreased physical activity, all of which negatively impact students' overall well-being.


Students can participate in workshops, join peer support groups, and help spread awareness through social media and school events.


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