Early Smartphone Use Linked to Mental Health Crisis in Kids—Global Study Warns

A major global study has found that giving children smartphones before the age of 13 is strongly linked to poorer mental health outcomes later in life.

Researchers surveyed nearly 2 million people across more than 160 countries and discovered that early smartphone ownership increases the risk of issues such as suicidal thoughts, aggression, low self-worth, and emotional struggles—especially among girls. Experts warn that early exposure to smartphones and social media can disrupt healthy brain development and emotional regulation. The findings have prompted calls from scientists and educators to delay smartphone access and even ban devices in schools for younger children.

Parents are being urged to reconsider when and how their children are introduced to smartphones to protect their long-term mental well-being.