Sleep disruptions and loneliness in children: Limit aggressive games and screen time for their mental health

Sleep disturbance is another serious consequence of excessive screen time, and it can have a serious negative impact on kids' mental and physical health. (Image: Canva)

For many young people, digital entertainment is an appealing getaway due to its accessibility and immersive qualities. However, there is rising concern about the significant effects these activities have on children's mental health beneath the surface of entertainment. Beyond being a simple source of entertainment, children's psychological health is seriously jeopardised by excessive screen time and exposure to violent video games. Protecting the mental health of the younger generation requires acknowledging and addressing the repercussions of screens becoming ingrained in daily life as technology advances.

The complex problems with aggressive gaming and screen time that are listed here will help to clarify the difficulties kids confront and the wider effects these issues have on their wellbeing.

Increased risk of mental health problems:

Long-term screen time and aggressive game material have been associated in studies with a higher risk of developing mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), says Dr Saurabh Khanna, lead consultant - pediatrics & neonatology, CK Birla hospital, Gurgaon. These immersive activities have the potential to worsen symptoms in kids who are already at risk for mental health problems, which emphasises the significance of early intervention and preventative measures.

Sleep disruptions:

Sleep disturbance is another serious consequence of excessive screen time, and it can have a serious negative impact on kids' mental and physical health, says Khanna. Children find it difficult to fall asleep and may develop sleep disorders because of the blue light that screens generate disrupting their natural sleep cycle. Furthermore, playing video games or other stimulating activities right before bed negatively affects mood, cognitive function, and general wellbeing by further disrupting the quality of sleep.

Impaired social skills and behavioural changes:

Khanna says that prolonged use of screens can prevent children from developing critical social skills and emotional intelligence, which will make it more difficult for them to manage interactions with others. Children who receive less face-to-face connection and physical exercise are less likely to acquire empathy, problem-solving skills, and nonverbal communication signs. Furthermore, some children's prosocial conduct has been shown to decline and hostility has increased when exposed to violent and aggressive gaming content, raising questions about how these behaviors will evolve over time.

Social isolation and loneliness:

Although screens can be a source of entertainment and connection, too much screen time can, ironically, cause youngsters to feel lonely and socially isolated. An excessive dependence on virtual communication could diminish in-person social encounters, making it more challenging to establish and nurture deep connections. Children's mental health may suffer as a result of this social isolation, which exacerbates emotions of worry, despair, and loneliness.

The effects of violent video games and prolonged screen time on kid's mental health are complicated and urgent problems that need to be carefully thought out and addressed. In an increasingly digital age, we may try to create a better and more supportive environment for our children's mental health by being aware of the problems caused by excessive screen time and taking proactive steps to solve them.