Three sisters committed suicide together due to online gaming, expert warned on the trap of gaming in children

New Delhi: Amid growing concerns over online gaming and children’s mental health in recent weeks across the country, a senior expert at the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) has warned that excessive gaming is often a sign of deep psychological vulnerability.

Increasing cases warned

In the last few weeks, many cases related to online gaming addiction among children have been reported from different states of the country. In these, children remain alone for a long time, do not go to school, sleep gets disturbed and emotional distance from the family increases.

Many schools in Delhi-NCR and South India have issued special advisories for parents. Child welfare experts are handling such cases where minor children have become completely immersed in task-based and reward-giving games.

The tragic incident in Ghaziabad intensified the debate

The death of three minor sisters in Ghaziabad has made this issue more serious. Investigation revealed that the girls were deeply engaged in a task-based online game (primarily Korean style). The administration is investigating all aspects, but this incident has drawn everyone’s attention to the psychological risks of digital platforms. Experts say that this is not just gaming, but a sign of a deeper emotional problem.

Dr. Manoj Kumar Sharma’s warning

Dr. Manoj Kumar Sharma, professor at NIMHANS and head of SHUT Clinic (Service for Healthy Use of Technology), said that excessive gaming is not just a problem of screen time. “Children develop a strong digital identity, which sometimes supersedes their real-life identity. Prolonged isolation and distance from school further increases their vulnerability,” he said.

Why gaming becomes a coping mechanismDr. According to Sharma, gaming becomes a way for children to deal with stress. The real world is replaced by the digital world. Many games use psychological triggers, such as rewards for completing tasks and continuous achievements. What seems fun in the beginning gradually turns into addiction.

Other related problems

Experts believe that problematic gaming may be linked to depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts. Problems like lack of sleep, mood fluctuations and social isolation are common. NIMHANS has emphasized on early detection, active role of parents and balanced digital habits.

need for timely intervention

Discussion of digital regulation and awareness is increasing. Dr Sharma’s warning is a reminder that when digital identities take over real relationships, immediate intervention is necessary. Parents keep an eye on children’s online activities, increase communication and seek expert help when needed. Institutions like NIMHANS are continuously working in this direction so that children can live a healthy digital life.