3,258 cases in three years: The growing screen addiction problem among Kerala teenagers

Kollam, Kerala: Excessive use of digital devices is emerging as a growing concern among adolescents in Kerala, with 3,258 cases of digital addiction reported at Digital De-Addiction (D-DAD) centers across the state between January 2023 and September 2026.

The highest number of cases was reported in Kollam city, which accounted for 757 cases, followed by Kozhikode (529), Kochi (421), Thrissur (417) and Thiruvananthapuram (400).

Most of those approaching the D-DAD centers, functioning under the Kerala Police's Social Policing Directorate, are aged between 14 and 18. The centers aim to reduce excessive use of mobile phones, the internet and online gaming, while addressing the psychological and behavioral problems associated with such usage. They started functioning in 2023.

Difficulty concentrating on studies, sleep disturbances, sudden bouts of anger, aggressive behavior and social isolation are among the common problems observed in children with excessive digital exposure. An inability to regulate screen time can adversely affect their education, family relationships and social interactions.

Of the 3,258 children who approached the centers, 1,725 ​​have completed treatment, while 1,025 are currently undergoing treatment. Another 67 children discontinued treatment midway.

Efforts are underway to bring those who dropped out back for counseling and help them return to normal life, Social Policing Director S. Ajitha Beegum told Mathrubhumi.

Kerala currently has 14 D-DAD centers, one in each district. The police plan to extend their services to six rural police districts — Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Kozhikode and Kannur — by next year.

To create awareness about the responsible use of digital media, the Social Policing Directorate has organized 1,205 awareness classes, reaching more than 1.27 lakh people with messages on digital well-being.

In Kollam alone, 19,280 people participated in 158 such classes. Awareness programs are also being expanded through parents' groups, residents' associations and local self-government institutions, Ajitha Beegum said.

The centers are staffed by teams comprising mental health professionals and police personnel. Parents and teachers can approach them to identify signs of excessive digital use among children and arrange counseling when necessary.

For counseling and information, parents and children can contact CHIRI, the 24-hour state-level helpline, at 9497 900 200.

Signs of digital addiction

• Inability to control or regulate digital device usage.

• Intense anger, stubbornness and anxiety when asked to put away a phone.

• Reduced concentration on studies and sleep disturbances.

• Withdrawal from other recreational activities.

What parents can do

• Instead of forcibly taking away mobile phones or scolding children, set time limits and gradually reduce their screen time.

• Completely avoid digital devices during study hours, meal times and at least one hour before bedtime.

• Encourage children to take up sports, outdoor games and other hobbies.

District-wise digital addiction cases in Kerala

Figures from January 2023 to September 2026.

Published: 11 Nov 2026, 07:38 am IST