As the world marks Social Media Day, a worrying trend is emerging in Ahmedabad. More than 2,000 residents have sought medical help for social media addiction over the past four years. Public hospitals have reported a significant increase in these cases. The Government Hospital for Mental Health (HMH) has seen patient visits to its Digital Detox Centre rise from 116 in 2021-2022 to 491 in 2024-2025. This marks a fourfold increase. Experts believe that if private healthcare data were included, the total number of cases would be even higher.
Young adults are the most affected group. Dr. Ajay Chauhan, superintendent of HMH, states that around 95% of those seeking treatment are aged between 15 and 30. Many show signs of irritability, anger, and anxiety when not using social media. This emotional dependence can lead to conflicts at home. Teenagers, in particular, can become aggressive when asked to limit their screen time.
Mental health professionals are increasingly diagnosing issues like anxiety, mood swings, and poor academic performance in young patients. Some cases have been severe enough to require hospitalization. Here are some real-life examples:
– **Case 1**: A 12-year-old played video games for 6 to 8 hours daily and neglected homework, leading to eye strain and headaches.
– **Case 2**: A 15-year-old felt anxious when offline and suffered low self-esteem due to low engagement on posts.
– **Case 3**: A 10-year-old struggled to sleep without a mobile phone or TV, resulting in mood swings.
– **Case 4**: A 13-year-old became socially withdrawn, preferring social media to family interactions.
– **Case 5**: A 16-year-old argued with parents over mobile use and experienced sleep deprivation and academic decline.
Globally, researchers warn about the impact of algorithm-driven content on attention spans and emotional health, especially in adolescents. Psychologist Jonathan Haidt, in his book *The Anxious Generation*, links excessive screen time with rising anxiety and depression among teens. While much of this research focuses on Western contexts, it is increasingly relevant in urban India, where youth screen time continues to rise.
Mental health experts stress the importance of early intervention and open family communication. They recommend balanced screen habits and offline routines. Improving digital literacy for both children and parents is also essential. Experts believe that raising awareness about the issue and being sensitive to behavioral changes can help tackle this growing public health challenge.
Social media addiction is not just a local issue; it reflects a global trend. Studies indicate that around 4-5% of social media users worldwide grapple with addiction. Among young adults, the figures are even higher. A significant portion of this demographic spends over four hours daily on social media.
In India, 55.3% of the population are internet users, with 33.7% actively engaging on social media. The statistics show a clear need for effective strategies to address this addiction. Parents are becoming increasingly concerned, with only 8% believing their children are free from online addiction. Many parents report worrying about their children’s academic performance due to excessive screen time.
In conclusion, social media addiction is a rising concern in Ahmedabad and beyond. The increase in medical cases highlights the urgent need for awareness and intervention strategies to promote healthier digital habits. As society becomes more connected, it is crucial to ensure that the benefits of social media do not come at the cost of mental health.
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