Connection Crash - by Jake Ernst (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

For fans of The Anxious Generation and Dopamine Nation, comes a solution for recovering sustained relational health and safety in a world influenced by AI, algorithms and screens

In today's tech-driven world, we're feeling lonelier than ever. The presence of artificial connection is perpetuating distraction, disconnection, and distress. And no one is experiencing this more than teens. Relational therapist and community educator Jake Ernst calls this phenomenon the "connection crash." Connection crash happens when we suppress our natural instincts to connect with others and instead turn to dopamine-driving, attention grabbing, and socially isolating apps and algorithms that offer short term comfort.

Scary? Yes. But Jake has a solution. Co-regulation is the process of developing safety through connection with others--whereby one calm person calms another. It's the most reliable way to experience relational safety in an unpredictable world and to protect the future of our children.

Through research, case studies, exercises and scripts, Connection Crash will first show adults how to support regulation through their stress responses, manage their thoughts and emotions, and help build a reliable sense of self and relational safety with themselves and others. It will then teach readers how to build those skills with their children, so they're better prepared to have healthy, long-lasting relationships. By the end of the book, you will strengthen your relationship with your teen, while seeing there's a clear path forward for emotional safety and closeness in the digital age.

About the Author

JAKE ERNST (he/him) is a registered social worker and psychotherapist. He is the Clinical Director at Straight Up Health. Jake is an engaging speaker and educator and has delivered educational workshops about mental, emotional, and social health--an acronym he refers to as "MESH"--for executives and employees at Google, Starbucks, RBC, Home Depot, Equifax, and Hello Fresh and at countless community health agencies, schools, and conferences, both nationally and internationally. He lives in Toronto.