A new study published in JAMA reveals a link between screen addiction and suicidal behaviors in teenagers. Researchers analyzed data from over 4,000 adolescents in the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study, finding that increasing addiction to social media, mobile phones, and video games correlated with a significantly higher risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. While total screen time wasn't a factor, addictive behaviors, characterized by inability to stop use and avoidance of real-life problems, were strongly linked to increased suicide risk. Experts emphasize the need to focus on addictive behaviors rather than just screen time when assessing adolescent mental health.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.