Clarkson Institute Releases Short Film about Youth Mental Health and Digital Wellness

Omaha, NE — After a heartfelt hometown screening that brought families, educators, community leaders, and neighbors together, the short film Disconnected is now being released publicly.

Written by a Nebraska high school student, Disconnected explores the emotional tension of growing up in a world where constant digital connection can leave people feeling profoundly alone. The film invites viewers to reflect on technology, relationships, and the importance of genuine human connection—especially for young people navigating mental health challenges.

“This film is ultimately about connection,” said Bill Lydiatt, MD, EMBA, CEO of Clarkson Institute. “At a time when young people are facing growing mental health challenges linked to AI, technology overuse, and digital isolation, it underscores how essential genuine human connection is to health and well-being. We hope the film not only resonates emotionally, but also encourages important conversations about connection, technology, and health.”

According to a Nebraska Department of Education (NDE) and Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) report, more than one in four Nebraska high school students reported feeling sad or hopeless nearly every day for at least two consecutive weeks over the past year (2023).

At the same time, youth nationwide are spending more time than ever on phones and social media, a trend increasingly associated with rising anxiety, depression, sleep disruption, and negative self-image.

A collaboration with The Glowmedia Project, the film is the result of a statewide script competition asking students to reflect on their relationship with technology. Glowmedia is a nonprofit that produces short films and educational resources focused on youth mental health. By blending narrative storytelling with classroom-ready materials, they help schools, communities, and families engage in authentic conversations around emotional challenges such as anxiety, depression, peer pressure, and identity.

“This film reflects the kind of storytelling we believe can make a real difference,” said Trish Glowacki, Founder and Executive Director of Glowmedia. “Our team has been committed to creating films that thoughtfully explore the mental health challenges facing young people today, and Disconnected continues that work in a timely and meaningful way.”

Disconnected is available to view at clarksoninstitute.org/disconnected. Companion guides for educators, parents/guardians, and students are also available at the link.

The public release follows recent screening events in communities across Nebraska that stimulated broader conversations about youth well-being, community, and mental health.

And, the release of Disconnected is not the end of the conversation. Building on this momentum, Clarkson Institute and Glowmedia have launched the next iteration of this storytelling effort, inviting middle and high school students across Nebraska to submit their idea for the next short film to emerge from this initiative. Middle and high school students can enter the competition at glowmedia.org/nebraska-student-script-competition now through September 18.

Official poster for Disconnected

Flyer for just-announced script competition