Excessive use of smartphones and video games among children might lead to mental health issues like psychotic episodes later in life, a study published in JAMA Psychiatry suggests. Researchers found that prolonged exposure to screens during adolescence could make the brain more vulnerable to delusions and hallucinations by the age of 23.
The study, conducted by researchers at McGill University in Canada, involved 1,226 participants born between 1997 and 1998. They were asked questions to determine if they had experienced persecutory thoughts, bizarre experiences, or perceptual abnormalities.
Results showed that adolescents who played video games excessively had a higher likelihood of experiencing psychotic episodes. Additionally, internet use was found to be more closely linked to depression than gaming or watching TV.
The researchers emphasized that abruptly limiting screen time could be harmful. Instead, parents should understand why children are drawn to devices and encourage alternative activities.
The study sheds light on the potential risks associated with excessive screen time during adolescence and highlights the importance of monitoring and managing children’s technology usage. By promoting healthy habits and providing alternative forms of entertainment, parents can help mitigate the negative effects of smartphone and video game addiction on mental health.
