A recent study published in Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology has uncovered a concerning trend: preteens who spend more time on screens are at higher risk of developing manic symptoms within two years. The research, which examined the habits of over 9,000 early adolescents, found that heavy engagement with social media, video games, texting, and videos was associated with behaviors indicative of manic episodes, such as inflated self-esteem, reduced need for sleep, distractibility, rapid speech, racing thoughts, and impulsivity. These findings highlight the importance of understanding how screen use impacts mental health during adolescence, a critical period for the development of bipolar-spectrum disorders.

The adolescent brain is particularly susceptible to changes influenced by external factors, making this age group especially vulnerable to mental health challenges. According to Dr. Jason Nagata, an associate professor of pediatrics at the University of California, San Francisco, earlier onset of symptoms can lead to more severe and chronic outcomes. The study suggests that screen addiction—characterized by compulsive behavior, withdrawal, tolerance, conflict, and relapse—may exacerbate these issues, especially when combined with irregular sleep patterns.

The data for this study was drawn from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) project, the largest long-term study of brain development in the United States. Participants, aged 10 to 11, provided information on their screen habits and whether they had experienced manic or hypomanic symptoms. Co-author Dr. Kyle Ganson, an assistant professor at the University of Toronto’s Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, emphasized the need to cultivate healthy screen use habits early on. He noted that future research could help clarify the mechanisms linking screen time with manic symptoms, aiding in prevention and intervention strategies.

While screen time offers benefits like education and socialization, parents should be mindful of potential risks to mental health. Developing a balanced media plan, including designated screen-free times before bedtime, can mitigate these risks. This study underscores the significance of addressing screen use in early adolescence to promote healthier mental development.