Exploring The Impact Of Excessive Screen Time On Children’s Mental Well-being

Posted by: lukwago J in Life Style April 12, 2024

In today’s digital age, the prevalence of video game and smartphone addiction among children has raised concerns about its potential effects on mental health.

Researchers discovered that excessive use of smartphones and social media in adolescence could make the brain more susceptible to delusions, hallucinations, and ‘bizarre ideas’ by the time one reaches the age of 23.

Researchers believe that the technology itself might not be the cause of the issue but a child’s addiction to the devices could be a sign that they are susceptible to mental illness.

“Higher media use and mental health problems appear to share risk factors, such as parental mental health problems, loneliness, bullying and parent-child relational problems,” the team behind the study said.

While technology offers numerous benefits, it’s important to strike a balance and ensure healthy boundaries. Recent studies and observations have ignited discussions about the potential link between excessive screen time and the manifestation of psychotic episodes in children.

Psychotic episodes, characterized by a loss of touch with reality, can be alarming for both children and their caregivers. While the causes of such episodes are multifaceted, researchers have begun to explore the role excessive video game and smartphone use might play.

Though not a direct cause, there is growing evidence suggesting that prolonged exposure to digital devices can contribute to the development or exacerbation of underlying mental health conditions, potentially increasing the risk of psychotic episodes.

It is important to note that not all children who engage in excessive screen time will experience psychotic episodes. Factors such as pre-existing mental health conditions, genetic predispositions, and environmental influences also play significant roles.

However, research indicates that excessive screen time can disrupt important social interactions, sleep patterns, and healthy lifestyle habits, potentially contributing to the vulnerability of developing mental health issues.

Recognizing the potential risks, it becomes crucial for parents, educators, and society as a whole to foster a balanced approach to technology use among children.

Encouraging alternative activities such as outdoor play, creative pursuits, and social interactions can help mitigate the potential negative impacts of excessive screen time.

Additionally, open communication and maintaining a supportive environment can aid in addressing underlying mental health concerns and reducing the risk of psychotic episodes.

While the relationship between video game and smartphone addiction in children and the occurrence of psychotic episodes is a complex topic, it is essential to approach it with both caution and empathy. By educating ourselves and implementing healthy screen time practices, we can help safeguard the mental well-being of our children.

Let us strive for a harmonious balance between the digital world and the real world, nurturing their growth and fostering resilience.

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