Sam Eaton on the Gen Z Mental Health Crisis and Social Media's Major Role in It

Michael Foust

Crosswalk Headlines Contributor
Published Jun 17, 2026

Mental health advocate and author Sam Eaton joins Crosswalk Talk's Michael Foust to discuss the growing mental health crisis facing Gen Z. Drawing from his own battle with depression and a suicide attempt, Eaton explains why today's teens face unique pressures from smartphones, social media and constant online comparison. He also offers practical advice for parents seeking to help their children navigate the digital world in a healthy way. Eaton shares why community, purpose and honest conversations are essential for emotional well-being. The discussion also explores what Scripture says about depression and why faith and mental health care can work hand in hand. Eaton is the author of You Can Do This, a new book designed to help readers build resilience and hope one day at a time. He also is the founder of Recklessly Alive.

This video originally appeared on GodTube.com

Photo Credit: ©GodTube / Sam Eaton


Michael Foust has covered the intersection of faith and news for 20 years. His stories have appeared in Baptist Press, Christianity Today, The Christian Post, the Leaf-Chronicle, the Toronto Star and the Knoxville News-Sentinel. 

Listen to Michael's Podcast! He is the host of Crosswalk Talk, a podcast where he talks with Christian movie stars, musicians, directors, and more. Hear how famous Christian figures keep their faith a priority in Hollywood and discover the best Christian movies, books, television, and other entertainment. You can find Crosswalk Talk on LifeAudio.com, or subscribe on Apple or Spotify so you never miss an interview that will be sure to encourage your faith.

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