Ada Nicodemou, star of Home and Away, is backing the Unplug24 campaign, a movement encouraging people to step away from social media for 24 hours on October 24, according to The Advertiser.
This initiative, created by Wayne Holdsworth, honours his son Mac, who tragically took his own life in 2023 after being harassed online.
Nicodemou, a mother of a 12-year-old, is concerned about the impact of social media as her son approaches his teenage years. Talking to The Advertiser, she acknowledges the dangers of online bullying, sextortion, and depression, and stresses the importance of delaying children’s exposure to social platforms.
Unplug24 has gained significant support, with public figures like singer Jessica Mauboy, Health Minister Mark Butler, and fitness trainer Michelle Bridges joining the cause. These advocates highlight the toxic effects of social media, particularly for vulnerable users.
Nicodemou admitted to having a “love-hate” relationship with social media, acknowledging its addictive nature and the impact of negative comments from trolls. She believes that the longer children can be kept away from social media, the better.
Other supporters include actor and former commando Damien Thomlinson, who has lost friends to suicide. He emphasized the dangers of social media for those experiencing “dark thoughts,” noting how quickly it can worsen their mental state. Comedian Rob Shehadie also urged that children should be shielded from external influences online, reinforcing the importance of real-life connections.
Unplug24 promotes a break from the pressures of social media, encouraging users to focus on meaningful interactions and mental well-being.
Source: The Advertiser
