Economic Survey Flags Digital Addiction Risk as Doctors Warn of Mental Health Fallout

India’s latest Economic Survey has raised serious concerns about growing dependence on digital devices, warning that unchecked screen use can trigger long-term mental health issues. While acknowledging the benefits of internet access for learning, employment, and civic participation, the Survey, tabled two days before the Union Budget for this financial year, flags the darker side of compulsive digital use, including lost study hours, reduced workplace productivity, rising healthcare burdens, and financial risks linked to impulsive online behaviour. Smartphones, social media platforms, online gaming, and constant notifications are increasingly shaping daily behaviour, often at the cost of emotional well-being, social interaction, and sleep.

The message is clear. Digital addiction is no longer a fringe issue. It is becoming a systemic one.

What is digital addiction?

Digital addiction is a compulsive and excessive use of digital devices that interferes with normal life, relationships, work, or health. According to doctors, it is not limited to just screen time but also includes an unhealthy psychological dependence on constant online engagement, validation, or stimulation. Experts say they see patients who struggle to disconnect, feel restless or irritable without their phones, and experience reduced attention spans and productivity. In severe cases, digital overuse mirrors addiction-like behaviour, with cravings, withdrawal symptoms, and loss of control. According to Neha Cadabam, Senior Psychologist and Executive Director at Cadabams Hospitals, high-stimulus digital platforms, academic pressure, and cyberbullying are creating a perfect storm for mental health challenges among young Indians. “Many do not recognise their behaviour as problematic until it begins affecting their studies, work, or emotional stability,” she told Times Now.

Growing mental health fallout

Doctors warn prolonged screen time - especially on social media – is associated with increased anxiety, low self-esteem, body image issues, and depressive symptoms. Constant comparison, online bullying, and exposure to unrealistic lifestyles can distort self-perception, particularly in young users. “There has been a sharp rise in individuals, especially students and young adults, presenting with anxiety disorders, depressive symptoms, stress-related conditions, and sleep-related problems, where excessive screen exposure is a common underlying factor,” she added. Sleep disruption is a major concern as late-night use suppresses melatonin, the sleep hormone, causing insomnia and poor sleep quality. Chronic sleep deprivation worsens mood disorders, weakens concentration, and raises the risk of long-term mental health problems. Children and adolescents are the most vulnerable, as lack of sleep causes severe behavioural issues, academic decline, emotional outbursts, and social withdrawal linked to excessive gaming and phone use. Many parents seek help only after habits become deeply entrenched.Also read: So Mad, I Booked A Flight! Burnt-Out Gen Z And Millennials Are Driving The Rise Of Rage Travel

What is the way forward?

Doctors stress that while the internet and other digital devices are not harmful, it is important to create a balance. Apart from self-regulation for adults, it is important that for youngsters, boundaries are set for screen time, and children are encouraged to participate in more offline activities, which can help provide them with physical exercise and promote regular sleep routines. Also, there is a need for greater awareness, digital literacy programmes, and early screening for problematic digital use. Some experts advocate including digital well-being education in school curricula to help children develop healthier relationships with technology.