Digital dependency linked to depression, anxiety and sleep problems, says psychiatrist

Dr Vishal Akula, a psychiatrist at Government Medical College, Nizamabad, warned that excessive online gaming, betting and smartphone use may contribute to mental health problems. Speaking at an IPS South Zone conference in Kanyakumari, he stressed identification, assessment and treatment

Hyderabad: Excessive online gaming, betting and smartphone use can contribute to serious mental health problems among young people, Dr Vishal Akula, Professor and Head of Psychiatry at Government Medical College, Nizamabad, has warned.

Speaking as a guest speaker at the annual conference of the Indian Psychiatric Society (IPS) South Zone Branch in Kanyakumari, Dr Akula said digital dependencies could be associated with depression, anxiety and sleep disturbances and, in severe cases, suicidal behaviour. He stressed that early identification was crucial to improving clinical outcomes.

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The senior psychiatrist emphasised the need for a holistic approach to treatment. He advocated comprehensive clinical assessments to identify and manage coexisting conditions, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and anxiety disorders, alongside structured individual therapy and regular follow-up care to support long-term recovery and reduce the risk of relapse.

The conference brought together mental health professionals from across southern India to discuss contemporary psychiatric challenges and evolving approaches to treatment.

At the conclusion of the session, the organising committee, including Organising Chairman Dr R. Prakash and Organising Secretary Dr Panneer Selvan, felicitated Dr Akula in recognition of his clinical insights.