Combating Social Media Addiction with Occupational Therapy
This Journal Club session will dive into a powerful article by AOTA author Priya Parekh, exploring a timely and crucial topic, how occupational therapy can lead the charge in helping people find genuine connection in a world dominated by screens.
We'll discuss how a psychiatrist's referral of a patient to OT for social media-related anxiety isn't just a fascinating clinical case, but a perfect example of what advocacy in action looks like. This discussion is about practical ways we can promote real-life experiences and decrease loneliness, both for our patients and ourselves.
We're excited to have the author, Priya Parekh, join us for an exclusive meet-and-greet ahead of the event and to participate in the full discussion. This is a unique opportunity to get her insights directly and discuss the implications for our practice and advocacy efforts. We'll explore how simple, offline actions can make a truly meaningful difference and how OT is uniquely positioned to foster community and well-being.
Combating social media addiction with occupational therapy _ AOTA.pdf

Meet Priya Parekh, OTD, OTR/L, CEAS, CFPS, CGCP
Priya Parekh, OTD, OTR/L, CEAS, CFPS, CGCP, originally from India, has been an occupational therapist in the United States for over seven years. During this time, she has worked in various settings and with individuals of all ages.
As a post-professional doctoral resident at USC, she focused on facilitating lifestyle changes for people facing mental health issues, chronic conditions, neurological disorders, and ergonomic challenges, amongst others.
She has also gained experience working in pediatric outpatient clinics and skilled nursing facilities. Currently, she works at Banner Ocotillo Medical Center in Chandler, AZ, where she primarily focuses on improving health outcomes and maximizing occupational performance for older adults.