Why are so many teens feeling anxious, depressed, and overwhelmed—and what can parents, schools, and communities do to help? Those questions are at the heart of “Screenagers: The Next Chapter”, a powerful new documentary coming to Lincoln Theater for a free community screening on Monday, Nov. 10 at 7 p.m.

Presented in partnership with by MaineHealth, and sponsored by Lincoln Hospital’s Coulombe Center for Health Improvement, the 63-minute documentary will be followed by an in-person talkback including licensed clinical social workers and providers from Lincoln Hospital dedicated to exploring local perspectives on youth mental health.

The film is a follow-up to Ruston’s acclaimed 2016 documentary which was screened more than 8,000 times in 70 countries and sparked a global conversation about the impact of screens on young people. “The Next Chapter” expands that dialogue, weaving together stories from families of different backgrounds with insights from leading experts including Dr. Dan Siegel of UCLA, Dr. Daniel Pine of the National Institute of Mental Health, and relationship researchers Drs. John and Julie Gottman.

In “Screenagers: The Next Chapter,” physician and filmmaker Dr. Delaney Ruston takes a hard look at the rising rates of teen stress, anxiety, and depression—and the ways that social media and constant connectivity can intensify those struggles. Using both her medical background and her own parenting journey as a lens, Ruston sets out to uncover practical, evidence-based strategies to help teens build resilience, emotional agility, and stronger communication skills.

Since 2011, there has been a 59% increase in teens reporting depressive symptoms; teens who spend more than two hours a day on social media are more likely to report unhappiness; and when parents “jump in” to fix problems, their own stress decreases—but their child’s stress often goes up. Ruston highlights programs that are helping teens learn to manage emotions in healthier ways, from peer-led wellness clubs to mindfulness and behavior activation techniques. Through humor, honesty, and science, “Screenagers: The Next Chapter” offers a hopeful path forward for families navigating adolescence in the digital age.

This is a free event with no tickets required. Lincoln Theater is located at 2 Theater St. in the heart of downtown Damariscotta. More information is available online at LincolnTheater.org or by contacting the theater office at info@LincolnTheater.org or 563-3424.