Google expands U.S. digital wellbeing fund to boost teen mental health

Google.org is enhancing its efforts to support the mental health of teenagers and equip families with the necessary tools to safely navigate the digital world. The organization has increased its digital wellbeing fund to over $50 million with a focus on helping children and teens use the internet safely and positively.

To achieve this, Google is collaborating with organizations such as Active Minds and the Child Mind Institute. These partnerships aim to improve mental health literacy and offer new digital tools designed to provide emotional support. The initiatives seek to encourage healthier technology habits and to address issues of social isolation among young people across the United States.

Part of the $50 million fund is dedicated to developing tools that promote mental health and teach positive digital habits. This includes creating new apps for journaling and programs that empower young people to advocate for their own wellbeing. The goal is to ensure that technology serves as a tool for growth rather than a hindrance.

Growing up in today’s connected world requires safe online exploration and learning, and Google believes every child should have the opportunity to do so. The increased funding is intended to support a healthier and more resilient generation of children and teenagers.

Google acknowledges that online safety is a collective responsibility. Therefore, they support child development and mental health experts to provide valuable resources for families and maintain a safe digital environment for everyone. One example of their work includes an event held with Highlights for Children in Columbus, Ohio. During this event, second-grade students participated in educational games and puzzles designed to teach skills such as creating strong passwords, the importance of taking breaks from screens, and demonstrating kindness online.

The expansion of digital safety and wellbeing support for teenagers introduces new interventions that focus on best practices for healthy technology interactions. In Altadena, California, Google.org and Active Minds launched a national youth-led mental health and digital wellbeing movement with a workshop at The Eaton Fire Collaborative. Speakers included Senior Director of Health Megan Jones Bell, Assemblymember John Harabedian, Active Minds’ Brandi Pretlow, and local student leaders.

From supporting child development and mental health experts to implementing robust parental controls and dedicated features across its platforms, Google is committed to creating supportive, respectful, and protective environments. This ensures that children and teenagers can fully embrace the learning, connection, and innovation opportunities offered by technology.