Addiction and Mental Health: How Excessive Screen Time Affects Adolescents During the Pandemic
As the COVID-19 pandemic reshapes daily life, rising addiction and mental health concerns are particularly evident in adolescents. This health news piece explores how excessive screen time contributes to manic symptoms among teens. Research reveals troubling links between behavioral patterns similar to addiction and disturbed sleep, influenced by abnormal dopamine responses in the brain.
The Impact of Excessive Screen Time on Mental Health
Recent studies indicate that problematic screen use (PSU) mirrors addiction symptoms, with significant implications for the mental health of adolescents:
- Increased risk of sleep disorders.
- Altered dopamine responses leading to reward sensitivity.
- Overall deterioration of mental well-being.
Epidemiological Insights
Through the lens of epidemiology, experts argue that the rise in PSU correlates with young people's mental health challenges during the pandemic:
- Heightened anxiety and depressive symptoms.
- Marked decline in face-to-face social interactions.
- Escalation in reliance on digital devices, contributing to a cycle of negative mental health outcomes.
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This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.