In recent years, the increasing use of screens among children has become a cause for concern, especially in relation to the increasing cases of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

ADHD, a neurodevelopmental disorder, affects millions of people globally, including a large number of children in India. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 5-8% of children in India have ADHD.

The role of excessive screen time in contributing to ADHD symptoms is becoming increasingly clear.

Dr Sanjay Wazir, medical director of paediatrics and neonatology at Motherhood Hospital, Gurugram, said excessive exposure to screens can lead to over-stimulation of the brain, especially in young children.

“This overarousal exacerbates ADHD symptoms, including hyperactivity, impulsivity, and attention deficit,” Dr. Vazir said.

In a recent research conducted among young adults in the Delhi-NCR region, scientists found a high prevalence of adult ADHD.

Recognizing ADHD Symptoms

ADHD manifests itself through a variety of symptoms that can sometimes be difficult to identify.

These symptoms include difficulty maintaining focus, restlessness, impulsivity, and inability to follow instructions. In the Indian context, societal expectations and traditional teaching methods can make it even more challenging for children with ADHD.

“Children with ADHD often struggle with academic tasks because they have difficulty concentrating or sitting still for long periods of time, which is expected in traditional classroom settings,” Dr. Vazir said.

Key symptoms to look out for include:

• Difficulty completing homework or academic work
• chaos and oblivion
• interrupt or interrupt a conversation
• Difficulty following traditional teaching methods
• to act without thinking
• being unable to wait one’s turn
• speaking excessively
• little or no sense of danger

Screen Time and ADHD

Prolonged use of smartphones, tablets, and television has been linked to worsening ADHD symptoms.

Excessive stimulation from these devices places the brain in a hyperactive state, leading to decreased attention and increased impulsive behavior.

It also causes lack of physical activity, which is important for children’s development and results in restlessness.

“Children who spend too much time in front of screens do not engage in physical play, which is essential for burning energy and developing attention skills,” Dr. Vazir explained.

Dr Sonali Barthwal, consulting psychologist, department of psychology, Shalby Sanar International Hospital, Gurugram, said screen time can disrupt sleep patterns.

“Sleep disturbances are another concern, especially as exposure to screens before bed impacts sleep quality. Poor sleep further exacerbates ADHD symptoms,” Dr. Barthwal said.

The expert said that social isolation is also quite common. “This can lead to social isolation, reducing opportunities for social interaction and skill development,” Dr Barthwal said.

ADHD remains a largely misunderstood condition in India. Stigma, lack of awareness, and limited access to resources make it difficult for children with ADHD to receive timely diagnosis and treatment.

Dr. Vazir explains, “In many cases, parents do not realize that their child’s restlessness or inattentiveness may be caused by ADHD. It is often dismissed as misbehavior or a phase.”

This cultural and social misunderstanding can delay diagnosis and intervention, causing further difficulties for the child.

manage screen time

There is an urgent need to educate parents, teachers, and health care professionals about the impact of screen time on ADHD.

Dr. Wazir stressed the importance of setting limits on screen use and encouraging children to engage in physical activities.

“Balanced screen time and regular outdoor play are important. We must ensure that children get opportunities for physical activity, which helps manage hyperactivity and improve focus,” he advised.

Managing ADHD in children requires early diagnosis, balanced screen time and culturally sensitive treatment plans, experts agreed.