The addictions caused by these habits are linked to functional and structural brain changes, affecting emotional processing, executive attention, decision-making, and cognitive control.

Scientists have found that playing video games triggers the release of dopamine, the well-known chemical responsible for pleasure, stimulating the brain’s reward system. These effects are comparable to those caused by drug use in addicts. Dr. Peter Whybrow, director of neuroscience at the University of California in Los Angeles (UCLA), describes screens as “electronic cocaine.”

The problem begins when digital connection time starts replacing real-life social interaction in children and adolescents. Instead of spending time with friends and family in person, they begin to isolate themselves in the digital world. This is a warning sign that quick and firm action is necessary.

There is no single solution to reduce screen time among children and teenagers. Each case is unique, and every human being is different. However, we can discuss some possible approaches.

If the obsession seems out of control, it may be best to remove the devices from their reach, at least when an adult is not nearby to supervise time and content. But this is not always possible, since even school tasks today require access to these tools. Each family must assess what is or isn’t feasible within their circumstances.

Whatever your approach, you must remain firm and consistent in your position. There will be strong resistance in the beginning, but time will bring positive results. Stay committed to your decision.

With limited time and proper supervision, you can calm your child’s anxiety and hunger for constant connection.

If time management has already spiraled out of control, you will unfortunately need to take charge and set clear, firm limits. Be strong.

Do not give in to provocations. Remember, they are dealing with an obsession, and that creates dependency.

There may be crying and even tantrums, but this is absolutely normal when something that was out of control is taken away.

And it is okay if things get out of hand at first. The most important thing is that you were able to recognize the need to change something that had gone unnoticed. Do not feel guilty. Be firm, because you are the adult in the relationship.

Create a plan that includes physical activities in your children’s routine. The sense of well-being provided by exercise can help reduce the withdrawal symptoms from gaming and screen time.

Other activities that your family can do together will help bring back the joy of family connection and show your child how much their well-being matters to you.

What truly matters is not waiting too long to address this issue, to the point where interventions are only possible with the help of a health professional.

Many times, when parents finally realize what is happening, their children are already deeply addicted and have even neglected basic hygiene and eating habits.

The Hospital das Clínicas at the University of São Paulo’s Medical School offers a program for treating so-called heavy users, people who are dependent on internet use. “We started to notice a progressive increase in this complaint among our patients,” says Professor Cristiano Nabuco de Abreu, psychologist and coordinator of the team responsible for this area at the Integrated Outpatient Clinic for Impulse Disorders, part of the Institute of Psychiatry at HC.

According to him, those dependent on the internet use it excessively as a tool for socialization and communication, experiencing greater pleasure and satisfaction online. Many young people arrive at the hospital in very poor condition and at a critical stage of dependency.

In a recent interview with IstoÉ magazine, the specialist explained that for addicts, the internet is often used as a primary way to relieve tension, depression, low self-esteem, shyness, insecurity, and apathy. “Since each person has a different ability to tolerate frustration, reactions will also vary when facing failure or difficulty,” he said. “In the digital world, everything can be rebuilt. A person controls their environment and often chooses to take on new roles, which makes success easier to achieve.”

The excessive use of these devices has led to a new phenomenon that is drawing the attention of researchers. It is known as cell phone addiction and nomophobia, a term used to describe the discomfort or anxiety experienced by individuals when they are without their phones.

In the book Living in This Digital World, psychologist Cristiano Nabuco de Abreu, who also coordinates the Technological Dependencies Group, presents one of the first references on this topic. The book outlines the consequences of this dependency. “Users are becoming easily distracted and have difficulty controlling the amount of time they spend on devices,” the specialist wrote. The symptoms of this addiction are shockingly similar to those seen in individuals addicted to drugs.

I strongly recommend this book to parents and educators.