Concerns about youth screen use continue to grow, with research linking addictive engagement with social media, mobile phones, and video games to increased risks of depression, anxiety, and even suicidal behaviors. A large study from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) project highlighted that it is not total screen time, but patterns of addictive use that are most strongly tied to negative outcomes.
Richard A. Bermudes, MD—psychiatrist, Chief Medical Officer of BrainsWay, and Associate Physician at UC Davis—explains that these risks mirror what is already known about behavioral addictions in the brain. He emphasizes that addictive screen use is highly comorbid with mood and anxiety disorders, affecting 30%–40% of adolescents in these groups.
Dr. Bermudes notes that while current studies show associations rather than direct causation, there is strong evidence that these conditions are real, brain-based, and treatable. Importantly, he stresses the need for ongoing conversations among pediatricians, parents, and youth to monitor whether screen use reflects healthy engagement or signals dysfunction. Evidence-based interviewing and psychological approaches can help guide families toward appropriate treatment when needed.
“The good news,” Dr. Bermudes concludes, “is that we have validated, evidence-based treatments for addictions and comorbid mental health conditions—many of which are FDA-cleared and can make a profound difference in young people’s lives.”
