New Delhi : Global health experts have issued a strong warning on the rising risks of excessive screen time and chronic sleep deprivation among children, linking these habits to declining memory, poor academic performance, and higher anxiety levels. The call for urgent digital detox strategies comes amid alarming new research findings.
The Data Behind the Concern :
- According to the World Health Organization (WHO), children aged 5–17 years should not exceed 2 hours of recreational screen time daily, yet studies show the global average often crosses 4–6 hours.
- Research published in The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health found that children who sleep less than 8 hours per night score 15–20% lower on memory and attention tests.
- A 2024 UNICEF survey across 11 countries revealed that 41% of parents reported behavioral issues in children due to late-night mobile and gaming use.
Impact on Cognitive and Emotional Health
Experts highlight that overuse of digital devices disrupts melatonin production, delaying sleep cycles. Lack of proper sleep combined with screen addiction leads to:
- Reduced attention span and learning ability
- Impaired memory retention
- Mood swings, irritability, and increased risk of depression
- Eye strain and headaches (digital eye syndrome)
A child psychologist, noted:
“We are witnessing a silent mental health crisis. If children are not given screen breaks and adequate rest, the long-term effects could be as harmful as poor nutrition.”
Health specialists recommend:
- Device-free bedrooms after 9 PM
- At least 8–10 hours of sleep for school-aged children
- Scheduled “screen-free hours” for play, reading, and family interaction
- Schools to introduce digital literacy and mental health programs
Why Parents Must Act Now :
With over 250 million children worldwide estimated to be at risk of screen-related cognitive decline, experts stress that mental health awareness is now as crucial as nutrition and physical activity in raising healthy, capable learners.
