Screen Shift: Addictive Use, Not Time, Connected to Teen Suicide Risk

We have heard the warnings about screen time and kids for years now, but instead of just measuring how long they were on screens, a recent study focused on how they used them, and the results were alarming. Teens with high or increasing addictive patterns in using social media, phones, or gaming had 2–3 times higher risk of suicidal behaviors and ideation as well as symptoms of anxiety, depression, aggression or rule-breaking.

So what are these addictive patterns? Using screens to calm anxiety or escape from stress, and their use getting in the way of sleep, school, and social life are the most common. These addictive patterns share traits with other behavioral and substance addictions, like cravings, poor control, and emotional withdrawal when not using.

The large study of over 4,000 U.S. kids tracked them over four years starting from age 9–10. Here are some of the key findings: 

• Nearly one-third (31%) of youth showed increasingly addictive use of social media, and 25% showed the same for mobile phones
• Over 40% had a high-addiction pattern with video games
• By year four, 5% reported suicidal behaviors, and 18% experienced suicidal thoughts
• Total screen time showed no link to suicide risk or mental health issues 

This study represents a shift in what parents and caregivers should be aware of, an important point because addressing underlying addictive patterns could be the key to safeguarding your teens’ mental health.

• Watch for red flags. Irritability when devices are put away, neglecting other activities, anxiety if they can’t check in.
• Talk gently, not punitively. Ask open-ended questions like, “What do you like most about that game?” or “How do you feel after scrolling?”
• Seek professional support. Addiction-like patterns, especially when linked to emotional distress, benefit from early help including behavioral therapy, counseling, or screening in schools.
• Monitor patterns, not numbers. Instead of “You spent 3 hours today,” try “I noticed you seemed upset when our Wi‑Fi went down.”

Screening simply for hours won’t catch at-risk kids. It’s those with compulsive behavior, distress, and loss of control who need the most focus. If you are looking for support for your family, check out our resources.