Today is World Mental Health Day and one of the biggest factors affecting our little Heroes mental health these days is screen time.
A survey by the European Commission found children aged 6-15 in Europe spend an average of 2.5 to 4 hours per day on screens, depending on the country.
Whilst in America, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) stated that children aged 8 to 12 spend an average of 4-6 hours per day on screens, while teens may spend up to 9 hours daily. Whichever country you are in the reality is that screen time is higher than it should be.
We must be mindful of the amount of time our children are online as too much screen time can lead to a variety of problems.
Increased Anxiety and Depression:
Studies have shown a correlation between high screen time and increased rates of anxiety and depression among children and adolescents. According to a study published in The Lancet Public Health, children who spend more than two hours a day on screens are at a higher risk of developing mental health issues.
Sleep Disruption:
Screen time, particularly before bed, can interfere with sleep quality. The blue light emitted by screens can disrupt the production of melatonin, making it harder for children to fall asleep and stay asleep. The National Sleep Foundation reports that 72% of children ages 6-17 are not getting the recommended amount of sleep, and excessive screen time—especially before bedtime—can contribute to this issue.
Social Skills and Development:
Children may struggle with social cues and emotional intelligence if they primarily engage with others through a screen. Research from the European Society of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry highlighted that excessive screen use is linked to increased behavioral problems. Research from the University of Alberta found that children who spend more than 2 hours a day on screens may have a higher risk of behavioral problems, particularly in attention and hyperactivity.
Decreased Physical Activity:
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicate that children aged 2-5 should engage in at least 3 hours of physical activity per day. However, increased screen time often correlates with reduced physical activity levels. Physical activity is essential for mental well-being, as it releases endorphins and promotes overall health.
It is no coincidence that tech Gurus such as Bill Gates and Steve Jobs didn’t allow their children to use their products until a certain age. The people that have developed these technologies are aware of their addictiveness.
As technology continues to evolve, so will its impact on children's mental health by understanding the dual nature of screen time—its potential benefits and risks—parents and caregivers can make informed choices.
That's why if you want to raise mentally healthy little Heroes, you should reduce or even remove screen time, focusing on activities that nurture their minds and imagination.
In our next blog, we’ll share valuable TIPS to help you manage screen time effectively.
