The Link Between Prolonged Smartphone Use and Mental Health Issues

TIMESINDONESIA, JAKARTA – In the era of smartphones, the digital age has brought forth unprecedented connectivity but also raised concerns about the potential adverse effects of prolonged usage, especially among adolescents.

A recent study led by researchers from Hanyang University Medical Center in South Korea sheds light on the darker side of excessive smartphone use. Revealing alarming associations with stress, suicidal thoughts, and drug tendencies among more than 50,000 teenagers.

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The team, headed by Jin-Hwa Moon and Jong Ho Cha, conducted an extensive evaluation based on data collected from web-based surveys in 2017 and 2020. Earlier research had already hinted at the possible risks of mental health disorders, sleep disturbances, eye-related issues, and musculoskeletal disorders associated with excessive smartphone use.

However, this study sought to delve deeper into the psychological impact of prolonged smartphone use. The study focused specifically the exceeding use of smartphone for more than four hours daily.

The findings unveiled a significant surge in smartphone usage, with 85.7% of teenagers spending more than two hours on their smartphones in 2020, compared to 64.3% in 2017. The most concerning revelation was the elevated levels of stress, suicidal ideation, and drug use observed among participants who surpassed the four-hour mark in daily smartphone usage.

In stark contrast, teenagers who limited their smartphone use to 1-2 hours daily reported fewer issues, presenting a compelling case for moderation in digital consumption. The research team concluded that there exists a curvilinear relationship between smartphone usage time and adverse health impacts, with the detrimental effects becoming more apparent after four hours of daily usage.

The implications of this study extend beyond the academic realm, prompting a reevaluation of smartphone usage guidelines and educational programs tailored to encourage responsible media consumption. As we navigate the digital landscape, it becomes increasingly crucial to strike a balance between technological engagement and safeguarding the mental well-being of the younger generation.

The research taken was expected to give a sight for everyone how dangerous is the effcet of using smartphone consecutively. Especailly to teenagers and when it's more than 4 hours. People were expected to be able to choose what's good for their mental well-being. (*)

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