Virginia mother urges removal of phones from children's bedrooms after daughter's suicide
A mother from Virginia is calling on parents to keep smartphones out of their children's bedrooms after her teenage daughter died by suicide, a tragedy that has sparked renewed discussion about digital safety and mental health among adolescents.
The incident occurred earlier this year in a suburban community near Richmond. According to local authorities, the 16‑year‑old girl was found deceased at home, and investigators confirmed suicide as the cause of death. While the exact motivations remain under investigation, family members and mental‑health professionals have highlighted the potential role of constant online exposure and cyberbullying.
In response, the mother, who asked to remain anonymous, launched a public awareness campaign urging parents to establish clear boundaries around device usage. She recommends that families set designated charging stations outside bedrooms, enforce screen‑time limits, and encourage open conversations about online experiences. "When a child has unfettered access to a phone at night, it can interfere with sleep, increase anxiety, and limit opportunities for face‑to‑face interaction," she said in a statement released to local media.
Experts in adolescent psychology echo many of these concerns. According to a spokesperson for a national mental‑health organization, excessive nighttime screen time has been linked to heightened rates of depression and suicidal ideation among teens. The organization advises parents to monitor app usage, employ parental‑control features, and seek professional help if they notice changes in mood or behavior.
State officials have also taken note. The Virginia Department of Health announced plans to collaborate with schools and community groups to develop educational workshops on digital well‑being. These sessions will cover topics such as cyberbullying prevention, responsible social‑media habits, and signs that a young person may be struggling.
While the mother's plea is rooted in personal loss, it reflects a broader societal conversation about balancing technology's benefits with its risks. As more families confront similar challenges, policymakers, educators, and health professionals are likely to continue exploring strategies that protect youth while fostering healthy digital engagement.
