Digital Media and Device Addiction in Children and Teens: Signs, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help

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Digital media and device addiction in children and teens is a growing concern in Ontario and across Canada. It refers to a problematic pattern of use of smartphones, tablets, video games, and social media that interferes with daily life, school performance, sleep, and family relationships. Parents often notice the signs when they try to limit screen time or remove devices altogether.

Over the past decade, the use of digital devices and Internet connectivity in children and teens has increased substantially. Children today grow up with tablets, smartphones, computers, and video game systems in the household. They have access to online social media sites, downloadable apps, and other content at their fingertips. As a result, more and more children and teens are developing addictions to digital media and devices. As their addictions worsen, they become constantly connected and feel the need to have a digital device with them at all times.

Signs and Symptoms of Digital Media and Device Addiction

Parents can often spot the signs of digital media and device addiction by their child’s response when devices are taken away or when they are not allowed to get online, play video games, or access social media. One of the more typical responses is an unfounded temper tantrum, where the child lashes out at the parents. This is sometimes likened to the withdrawal symptoms experienced by those with addictions to drugs or alcohol. If your child exhibits this type of behaviour after having electronic devices removed, it is highly recommended to seek help from a qualified family counsellor.

Other symptoms and problems parents need to watch for that could indicate an addiction is developing or has already formed include:

• Problems falling asleep or sleeping throughout the night. Children and teens who sleep with their devices on and near them will wake up to respond to status updates, text messages, and so on. Constant use right up to bedtime also makes it harder to fall asleep.
• Poor performance in school. Lower grades, failure to do homework assignments, and other problems at school can be caused by overuse of digital media and devices.
• Inability to get offline or stop playing video games. If your child or teen cannot stop playing video games or stay offline for an extended period, they may have an addiction that requires your attention.
• Becoming obese. Obesity can be a side effect of a digital media and device addiction. Since they are sitting for extended periods, they are less active. In addition, snacking and overeating are common when distracted and engaged in online content, social media, or video games.
• A preference for online friends over real‑life friends. When your child or teen spends more time with online friends than actual friends, it may indicate an addiction. It can also lead to engaging in riskier behaviours they would otherwise avoid when with real friends.

When to Seek Help for Technology Addiction in Youth

If you notice one or more of the above symptoms, or you already suspect your child or teen has a digital media and device addiction, it is important to seek professional support. At Bayridge Counselling Centres, our regulated mental health professionals — including Registered Psychotherapists (RP), Registered Social Workers (RSW), and Psychologists (C.Psych) — provide family counselling and parent training across Ontario. We help families address technology addiction, communication problems, and related behavioural challenges.