In a tragic incident that highlights the dangers of nighttime smartphone use, the mother of a young girl has issued a warning to parents. Autumn Bushman, a vibrant 10-year-old cheerleader from Salem, Virginia, died by suicide on March 21. According to her mother, Summer Bushman, Autumn faced relentless bullying at school, which extended into her time online.
Bullying and Its Consequences
Summer shared that Autumn experienced bullying for wearing braces, which significantly impacted her mental health. Despite being an active and caring child, the emotional toll of harassment weighed heavily on her. The abuse followed her home, as she used her smartphone to access social media and communicate with peers.
On the night of her death, records indicate that Autumn was using her phone shortly before taking her own life. Summer recalled how Autumn insisted on having the device at bedtime for alarms, a choice Summer now regrets.
Study Links Nighttime Phone Use to Suicide Attempts
Recent research from Virginia Tech has established a concerning connection between nighttime screen time and suicide attempts among teens. The study focused on children aged 12 to 17 who had been hospitalized for intentional overdoses. Key findings from the research include:
- About two-thirds of the children attempted suicide after 8 p.m.
- Approximately 75% of those cases involved the use of screens right before the attempts.
Dr. Abhishek Reddy, a clinical psychiatrist and lead researcher, emphasized the negative impact of screen time on sleep and mental health. He noted that for children who are bullied, having access to their phones at night can be particularly harmful, as it limits support that can be accessed during the day.
Recommendations for Parents
In light of these findings, Dr. Reddy advises parents to consider several practical steps:
- Keep smartphones out of bedrooms at night.
- Encourage good sleep hygiene practices.
- Reduce accessibility to over-the-counter medications.
Summer Bushman expresses deep remorse over giving her daughter a smartphone, especially with nighttime use. She feels a profound sense of loss, knowing she will not witness her daughter’s milestones. “She deserved to live life, and I will never see her go to a homecoming or prom,” Summer stated.
If you or someone you know is struggling with emotional distress or suicidal thoughts, support is available. Reach out to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988, or visit their website for chat assistance.
