Early Smartphone Use Linked to Mental Health Crisis in Children, Global Study Warns

A sweeping global study has found that children who receive smartphones before the age of 13 face significantly higher risks of mental health issues, including depression, suicidal thoughts, aggression, and low self-worth. Researchers surveyed nearly 2 million people across more than 160 countries, revealing that early smartphone ownership is consistently associated with poorer mental health and well-being in adolescence and early adulthood. The risks are especially pronounced for girls and are linked to increased screen time, social media exposure, and disrupted sleep. Experts are urging parents to delay giving smartphones to children and calling for policy changes, such as school bans and stricter age limits for device and social media use. The findings highlight the urgent need for families and policymakers to reconsider the role of smartphones in childhood development.