The Digital Balance Initiative (DBI), a relatively new club, focuses on changing the lives of students who recognize that technology is starting to take a negative toll on their lives. Its main objective is to create a platform that recognizes poor habits and encourages students to take a step back and rethink how they engage with technology.
President Quyhn Nguyen (11), had the idea of starting the club in her AP Psychology class right before fall break, but their first meeting wasn’t until late January.
“Everyone in my class chose to be on their phones when we had free time, and in that silence, I realized how sad it is that kids our age aren’t taking that time to connect with one another,” Nguyen said. “I knew that this club was my solution to this issue.”
Rather than telling students to quit social media or pressure them into giving up technology entirely, DBI focuses on balance. The club hosts discussions about the effects of screen addiction, social media’s impact on mental health, and ways to be more mindful. Meetings also include group activities to show members what a new, improved lifestyle offers.
“Teens who spend less time on their phones have better mental health, physical health, interpersonal skills, and sleep,” Nguyen said. “A little boost in any of these areas has an impact on our members’ lives.”
Vice President Kristina Restrepo (11), who has been working on her own screen time management for over a year, got involved with DBI after Nquyen approached her with the club’s vision, and the two discussed the increasing lack of connection between individuals.
“We are all about education and awareness of social media and screen addiction,” Restrepo said. “We hold discussions so people can express their ideas and share them with like-minded people.”
DBI also emphasizes community and connection. Meetings provide a space for students to engage in face-to-face conversations, an experience that can be rare in an era dominated by digital interactions.
“The idea is that people might meet someone new or find someone that they have something in common with, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that you need to be social,” Restrepo said.
For students unsure about joining, one should give it a chance, as they are always seeking to expand and welcome new members.
“I usually talk about how nice it is to meet someone unexpectedly or how much I value quality time with others without screens,” Restrepo said. “These are relatable things that help open people’s eyes to why our club could be beneficial to them.”
Even if one’s schedule interferes with their ability to go to meetings, there are other ways to stay involved with DBI.
“Currently, we are in the process of organizing a fundraiser to raise supplies that children can use that involves them unplugging with electronic devices […] for an elementary school our sponsor’s mom, Ms. Petrus, works at.” Nguyen said.
The Digital Balance Initiative meets every other Monday, with its next meeting being the first day after students return from spring break. Additionally, they are currently seeking officers for the 2025-2026 school year, so if you are interested, make sure to join DBI before it’s too late.