"The Unknown Faces and Names That Saved Us: The Connection Between Parents of Truant Children and Social Media"

School refusal in children is a long-term challenge for parents, often accompanied by feelings of isolation, anxiety, and self-blame. In recent years, support outside of school has expanded, particularly through SNS platforms that offer "anonymous, casual connections," serving as a mental safety net. Paradoxically, parents find comfort in sharing their "deepest fears"—concerns and family issues that are difficult to discuss openly, as well as nighttime anxieties and anger—with strangers whose faces and names they do not know. This sense of security supports parents and helps them take steps forward the next day. Data indicates that school refusal reached a record high in the 2023 academic year (346,482 elementary and junior high students, and about 69,000 high school students), making stress management for parents a societal imperative. This article outlines the specific benefits provided by SNS communities (empathy, practical knowledge, and bridging to professionals), the associated risks (backlash, scams, information leaks, and dependency) and how to avoid them, ten rules for participating safely, and a realistic action plan that "connects" government, schools, healthcare, and online resources (a roadmap for the first seven days). Finally, it includes reliable consultation services (such as the 24-hour Child SOS Hotline) and reference materials. This is a practical guide based on numbers and evidence that aims to "untangle the heart."