Specialist warns of growing mental health issues linked to mobile phone addiction

Dr. Senani Wijethunga, a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, has raised concerns about the rise of mental health problems among young people due to their heavy reliance on mobile phones. At a media briefing today (26), she explained that the COVID-19 pandemic led to online schooling, which limited social interactions. As a result, many children started using their phones more than ever, leading to serious issues. Dr. Wijethunga noted that these behavioral addictions have caused adolescents to seek clinical help and treatment. She also mentioned that there is a growing number of youths, aged 13 to 18, who are receiving medical and psychological care for mental health issues linked to substance abuse. This trend is becoming a major social and public health concern in Sri Lanka.