Mental Health of Children in the Digital Age: A Wake-Up Call for Indian Parents and Educators

  •   Fri, Oct 10 2025
  •   By Ankith S Kumar

October 10, 2025

Introduction: A New Era of Childhood

Childhood in India has undergone a dramatic transformation in just a single generation. Where once children played outside, rode bicycles, and had long chats with family and friends, today’s children are more likely to be found scrolling, tapping, and swiping. Mobile phones, tablets, laptops, and smart TVs have become an integral part of their lives. The digital revolution has changed how children learn, play, and even socialize—but at what cost?

While digital tools have enhanced access to information and communication, they have also brought unprecedented mental health challenges. In the Indian context, where mental health is still a taboo subject in many families, the situation becomes even more concerning.

The Indian Child: Growing Up with Screens

The average Indian child now spends anywhere from 4 to 8 hours a day in front of screens, depending on their age and access. With affordable internet, smartphones in every household, and the rise of online education during the COVID-19 pandemic, digital exposure has become unavoidable.

From watching cartoons and reels to playing online games and attending virtual classes, children are spending more time online than ever before. However, beneath the convenience lies a growing crisis: a silent deterioration in emotional and psychological well-being.

Major Mental Health Issues Faced by Children in the Digital Age

1. Digital Addiction

Screen time can become addictive, especially when children rely on it for entertainment, validation, or emotional comfort. Games are designed with rewards and dopamine-triggering stimuli. Social media gives a sense of popularity based on likes and views. This dependency can lead to: Increased irritability and mood swings, shorter attention spans, Difficulty focusing on non-digital tasks, and frustration when devices are taken away

Over time, digital addiction can mirror substance abuse behavior—a disturbing trend even seen in children as young as 6–7 years old.

2. Social Isolation and Emotional Disconnect

Ironically, children are now more connected yet lonelier than ever. Virtual interactions often lack the emotional depth and nuance of face-to-face conversations. Excessive online activity can lead to: Social withdrawal from real-life relationships, Difficulty in expressing emotions or building empathy, Dependence on virtual approval (likes, comments)

Children lose the ability to read non-verbal cues, manage real-life conflicts, or develop healthy friendships—skills that are critical for emotional intelligence.

3. Cyberbullying and Online Harassment

Indian children, particularly teens, face increasing risks of cyberbullying, trolling, and online harassment. Unlike traditional bullying, this happens 24/7 and can be anonymous, public, and deeply damaging. Victims often do not report it out of shame or fear. Consequences include: Depression and anxiety, Low self-esteem, and trust issues. In extreme cases, self-harm or suicidal ideation

According to a 2023 survey by NCERT, nearly 35% of Indian students reported experiencing some form of online bullying.

4. Body Image and Self-worth Issues

Social media platforms are filled with edited images, filters, and highlight reels, presenting unrealistic beauty and lifestyle standards. Children, especially adolescents, compare themselves to influencers, celebrities, and even peers, leading to Negative body image, Eating disorders, Performance anxiety, Low confidence, and self-esteem. They begin to believe that likes and followers are equal to value, a dangerous belief that impacts their mental well-being.

5. Sleep Disorders and Physical Health Decline

The “blue light” from screens interferes with the body’s natural sleep rhythm, especially if children are exposed to screens before bedtime. This results in: Insomnia, Fatigue and irritability, Poor academic performance. Weakened immunity

Additionally, screen time often replaces physical activity, leading to sedentary lifestyles, obesity, and vitamin D deficiencies.

6. Academic Pressure in the Digital Format

While online learning has made education more accessible, it has also caused Zoom fatigue, attention issues, and stress. Not all children adapt well to online formats, especially those without a quiet learning space, strong internet, or parental support. The pressure to perform well in online exams and assignments can amplify anxiety and burnout.

Why Indian Families Need to Pay Attention

In Indian culture, mental health is often misunderstood or ignored. Emotional distress in children is commonly dismissed as: “Just a phase,” They’re just bored,” Kids these days are too sensitive.” But ignoring the signs can lead to long-term issues that affect not just the child, but the entire family. Recognizing that digital well-being is an essential part of mental health is the first step.

What Can Parents, Teachers, and Society Do?

 1. Create a Digital Hygiene Routine

Just like brushing teeth, children need to be taught healthy digital habits: Fixed screen time limits, No screens during meals or before bedtime, Digital detox weekends

 2. Prioritize Mental Wellness

Talk to your children about their emotions. Encourage open conversations without judgment. If signs of anxiety, depression, or isolation are noticed, seek professional help early. Mental health professionals, school counselors, and psychologists are more accessible now than ever.

3. Promote Offline Experiences

Encourage outdoor play, reading books, doing art, or gardening. Real-world activities enhance creativity, mindfulness, and confidence.

4. Build Real Relationships

Teach your child the value of in-person connections. Spend quality time as a family. Laugh, share stories, cook together, and listen without distractions.

 5. Educate About Online Safety

Children must understand the dangers of the internet. Teach them:

  • Not to share personal information online
  • To block and report bullies
  • To come to you if anything makes them uncomfortable

 6. Be a Role Model

Children learn by example. If you’re always on your phone, they’ll believe it’s acceptable. Practice what you preach—show them how to balance the digital and real worlds.

Conclusion: Raising Emotionally Strong Digital Citizens

We cannot stop the digital age, nor should we try. It brings immense opportunity, knowledge, and growth. But we must ensure that children grow with technology, not under its weight.

Mental health in the digital age is not just about reducing screen time—it’s about creating mindful, resilient, and emotionally aware children who can navigate both the online and offline worlds with confidence and care.

As parents, educators, and citizens, our role is not just to provide gadgets—but to give guidance, love, and a solid emotional foundation. The future of India depends not just on how smart our children are, but on how mentally strong and emotionally healthy they become.

Let us raise not just tech-savvy kids—but wise, balanced, and happy human beings.

 

 

 

 

 
By Ankith S Kumar
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Comment on this article

  • Rohan, Mangalore

    Fri, Oct 10 2025

    Very nice article , the children of today are the citizens of tomorrow who are addicted to instagram facebook whatsapp, the parents and grandparents too are addicted to these and also youtube watching shorts videos and news from so many news channels and all types of talks and advice. Whereas europe is going through a digital detox we are copying everything that's wrong. Don't use a lot of mobile , it is just a necessity in the time of emergency and nothing else. Thank you .


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