Screen dependency disorder is real and it is damaging your child's brain!

Parents Alert: Now, you’ve got another valid reason to restrict screen time for your younger ones. A new research has shown that prolonged use of mobile screen can impact your child’s brain. It could lead to a disorder which is also referred to as Screen Dependency Disorder (SDD). Psychologists have revealed that effects of SDD are worse for your child, and they may experience weight gain or loss, headache, insomnia and poor nutrition.

EFFECTS OF SCREEN DEPENDENCY: Apart from impacting physical and mental health, SDD has several emotional impacts. This includes anxiety, feeling of guilt, loneliness and even dishonesty. Health experts have proved that this addiction is somewhat similar to Internet Addiction Disorder.

BEHAVIOURAL ISSUES: According to health experts, SDD has the ability to damage your kid’s brain. You may also experience some behavioural changes in your child. Screen addict children might show problematic behaviour, may show withdrawal symptoms, show no interest in outside activities and may lie about the duration of mobile usage. Despite all these hazards, kids may continue its usage. Scientists are of opinion that those who suffer from SDD have “microstructural and volumetric difference in or abnormalities of both grey and white matter in their brain.”

WHAT YOU SHOULD NOTICE: You must keep a check on your child’s activities. When your child is not able to perform regular activities or tasks, consult a doctor. Observe your child’s behaviour and if needed, discuss it with a health expert to help your child from mobile addiction.

HOW MUCH SCREEN TIME SHOULD YOU ALLOW YOUR CHILDREN? According to health experts, for toddlers who are younger than 18 months, mobile usage should be strictly restricted. For older toddlers who are below 2 years of age, a little screen time should be allowed. Kids, between the age of 2 and 5 should not be allowed screen time for more than one hour. Experts recommend screen time for school-age kids between one to two hours, that too under parents’ supervision. Make sure that your child is using mobile screen in moderation and if you notice any strange change in your kid, consult an expert.

WHAT EXPERTS SAY: Gadgets and technology are not bad. Mobile devices and gadgets are important tools for communication, learning and research. But they should be used in an appropriate manner. Tell your children the right usage of devices and make sure that your children use them in moderation.