Today, it’s almost normal to have smartphones, TV, and video games as part of our daily lives—but how much screen time is too much? A recent study of Norwegian teens uncovered a surprising finding: it’s not just excessive screen time that can cause issues—too little time online might also be linked to mental health challenges.
The research also revealed that genetics can influence both mental health and screen habits—so it’s not fair to blame smart devices for everything we often associate them with.
Those with mental health challenges might watch more TV, but causation isn’t clear
The study analyzed data from over 23,000 young people aged 14–16, aiming to explore the link between screen time—whether social media, TV, or gaming—and various mental health issues.
Results showed a real connection: teens spending more than three to four hours daily in front of screens were more likely to have diagnosed mental health conditions. Yet, surprisingly, the lowest screen users weren’t necessarily protected either—those with minimal social media use also showed higher rates of psychiatric diagnoses compared to moderate users.
The study tackled the classic question: is too much screen time always harmful? The answer isn’t simple. Researchers also considered how genetic traits might explain both mental health risks and screen habits.
They found that certain genetic risk factors—linked to depression, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, or anorexia—were also associated with higher screen time. This suggests that genetics might predispose some individuals both to spend more time on devices and to develop certain mental health conditions.
Interestingly, social media use showed a non-linear pattern: both the highest and lowest users were more likely to have diagnosed mental health issues, while moderate users were less so. This hints that neither extreme is ideal—balanced use might offer some protection.
This isn’t the root of all problems
The study doesn’t demonize device use but highlights the importance of considering underlying factors when discussing mental health. Spending a lot of time scrolling or gaming isn’t necessarily the main cause—it could be that genetics and existing mental health shape these habits.
In other words: poor mental health might lead to more screen time, not the other way around.
Still, too much screen time isn’t harmless—exceeding four hours daily was linked to more severe mental health symptoms.
What does this mean for daily life?
First, screen time isn’t black and white: the goal isn’t to quit digital devices entirely but to use them mindfully and in moderation.
Second, if someone struggles with mental health, don’t immediately blame screen time—it might be a deeper issue needing a thoughtful approach.
Finally, healthcare, schools, and families play a key role in creating environments that help young people find a healthy balance between screen use and offline life.
