Screen addiction triggering mental health crisis among children, warns Ghaziabad health dept

Unchecked screen time is emerging as a silent epidemic among children, affecting not just their physical health but also wreaking havoc on their emotional and psychological well-being, the Ghaziabad Health Department has warned in a stark advisory issued recently.

Describing the crisis as universal — cutting across rural and urban boundaries — the advisory, released by Chief Medical Officer Dr. Akhilesh Mohan, bluntly states: “In today’s time, almost every parent is troubled by their child’s behaviour.”

The department noted a disturbing rise in mobile phone addiction among children, which it said begins subtly but gradually spirals into what appears to be a full-blown mental health issue.

“Behavioral problems are increasingly being reported in children across all sections of society,” said Dr. Mohan. “Overuse of mobile phones is a major contributor, and parents need to take urgent corrective steps.”

The advisory lists a wide range of health risks associated with excessive screen time — including eye strain, obesity, headaches, neck and back pain, and sleep and appetite disruptions. But the emotional toll is far more concerning.

Children addicted to phones often display irritability, aggression, social withdrawal, envy, stubbornness, and even violent behavior when denied screen access. The advisory also cites symptoms of anxiety, stress, and fear of missing out, along with a worrying loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities.

In response, the Health Department is urging parents to gradually reduce their children’s screen time, promote outdoor and social activities, and most importantly — lead by example.

“Parents must limit their own phone usage and spend more time interacting with their children in meaningful ways,” the advisory emphasized.

To tackle the growing mental health concerns, the Ghaziabad District Hospital will now offer dedicated counseling sessions for children every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. The department also encouraged use of the Tele Manas Helpline 14416 for free mental health support and counseling.

The advisory comes amid a growing chorus of concern from parents across the district, highlighting the urgent need for community-wide awareness and intervention.