Psychiatric Society Warning: Childhood Lost In The Rush Of Reels

One swipe… then another, and before you know it, hours have passed staring at a mobile screen. This habit of watching Reels and rapidly changing digital content is becoming a cause for concern for children, going far beyond mere entertainment.

According to health experts, constant fast scrolling and screen dependency can impair children’s concentration, memory, and cognitive abilities. If this habit persists over the long term, it can lead to difficulties with academics, reading books, engaging in conversation, and sustaining focus on a single task. Meanwhile, the term “digital dementia” is now being used to describe these symptoms associated with excessive digital dependency.

Digital Dementia: A Term Describing Symptoms, Not A Disease

Dr. Pramod clarified that digital dementia is not an official medical condition like traditional dementia or Alzheimer’s. The term is used to describe symptoms such as impaired memory and concentration linked to excessive reliance on digital technology.

Balance Is More Important Than Mobile Usage

Experts have advised parents to monitor their children’s screen time. Emphasis was placed on reducing mobile usage before meals, study sessions, and bedtime, as well as designating screen-free family time. Children are encouraged to engage in sports, read books, and interact with family and friends.