In this episode of 'Freakonomics Radio' titled 'Is Screen Time as Poisonous as We Think?', the correlation between increasing smartphone usage and the rise in anxiety and depression among young people is explored. Featuring experts like economist David Blanchflower, novelist Lauren Oyler, and professor Andrew Przybylski, the podcast examines whether smartphone usage is the main factor driving mental health declines or if other elements like social and political changes also play a role. The discussion delves into methodological issues in research linking digital technology to mental health, the societal panic around new technologies, and the benefits and drawbacks of smartphones. It emphasizes the need to address mental health problems through community and healthcare support rather than solely blaming technology.