Daijiworld Media Network- Mumbai

Mumbai, Aug 28: How often do we pick up the phone to “just check” and end up scrolling endlessly for hours? For today’s youth, this has become a daily reality. From late-night gaming sessions to compulsively checking notifications, screen overuse is silently eating into sleep, focus, and mental wellbeing.

According to Dr Trideep Choudhury, Consultant Psychiatrist at Fortis Memorial Research Institute, while “screen addiction” is not a formally recognised disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5-TR), the patterns observed among youngsters mirror behavioural addictions – compulsive use, withdrawal symptoms, and loss of control.
“Excessive screen use is on the rise. Many youngsters report irritability, anxiety, or low mood when cut off from gadgets,” he explains.

Dr Choudhury points out that disturbed sleep is often the first visible symptom. Prolonged screen exposure at night reduces melatonin production, leading to insomnia and poor sleep quality. Children are especially vulnerable, as overuse can affect attention span, memory, and socio-emotional development.

For students, the problem goes beyond sleep. “Sustained attention, problem solving, and study performance are all impacted. In the absence of screens, some even experience irritability or anxiety,” he notes, adding that this cycle lowers productivity and fuels further dependence.

While social media users are often driven by fear of missing out (FOMO), gamers tend to display gambling-like patterns – continuing despite losses or playing excessively for validation. Gender differences too exist, with girls more likely to use screens for social interaction and boys for gaming, though impulsivity is common to both.

• Irritability when away from gadgets

• Anxiety or low mood without screen use

• Headaches, neck pain, or eye strain

• Neglecting studies or hobbies

• Social withdrawal from family

• Hiding or lying about screen time

Healthcare professionals, schools, and families, he stresses, must work together. “Schools should screen for early signs, families should set boundaries, and severe cases may need professional help. Parents must lead by example in regulating their own usage,” Dr Choudhury advises.

Treatment strategies include cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), mindfulness, regular exercise, outdoor activities, and healthy routines. “Even short breaks during work screen time can help,” he adds.

Though not officially labelled, screen addiction is proving to be a silent yet growing crisis, one that is affecting sleep, focus, memory, and emotional health of the young generation. Recognising the early signs and building healthier habits, Dr Choudhury concludes, is the key to tackling this invisible epidemic.