How Excessive Screen Time Affects Your Child’s Mental Health and Brain Development

At Cassidy Psychiatry, we understand that parents want the best for their children—including their mental well-being and cognitive development. A recent study published in JAMA Pediatrics brings new insight into the relationship between screen time, sleep habits, brain development, and depression in children.

What the Research Says

According to the longitudinal study, children who spent more time on screens in late childhood were more likely to experience symptoms of depression by early adolescence. This connection was not just behavioral—it was also neurological.

Key Findings:

• Increased screen time disrupts sleep, which plays a vital role in emotional regulation and brain development.
• Children with more screen exposure showed altered white matter development in the brain—specifically in areas related to mood and cognitive control.
• Sleep problems and changes in brain structure accounted for over one-third of the link between screen time and depressive symptoms.

You can read the full study here 👉 JAMA Pediatrics Study

What Is White Matter and Why Does It Matter?

White matter is the brain’s communication network—it connects different regions to help manage thoughts, emotions, and actions. When white matter development is disrupted, it can make it harder for children to regulate mood and handle stress, increasing the risk for anxiety and depression.

Why Sleep Is So Important

The study also emphasized the impact of poor sleep quality—often caused by late-night screen use. Sleep is essential for memory, emotional processing, and brain development. When children lose sleep, their ability to cope with stress and regulate their mood can suffer significantly.

How Cassidy Psychiatry Supports Mental Health in Children and Teens

At Cassidy Psychiatry, we offer compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care for children ages 5 and up. Our services include:

• Comprehensive psychiatric evaluations
• Diagnosis and treatment of depression, anxiety, ADHD, and behavioral concerns
• Education for parents and families on managing screen time and improving sleep habits
• Advanced treatments, including KetaMist® ketamine therapy for treatment-resistant depression

Our providers use a personalized approach to help each child build resilience, develop healthy habits, and thrive both emotionally and academically.

How Parents Can Help at Home

If you’re concerned about your child’s screen use or mood, consider these small but impactful changes:

• Set a consistent “no screens before bed” rule
• Establish a regular sleep routine with calming activities like reading
• Encourage outdoor play and physical activity
• Monitor emotional changes and academic performance closely

If you notice persistent sadness, withdrawal, or trouble sleeping, early intervention can make a big difference. Our team is here to help.

Cassidy Psychiatry | Mental Health Services in Lakeland, Florida

We specialize in mental health care for children, adolescents, and adults with in-person and telehealth options available. Whether your child is struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or simply needs support navigating today’s challenges, our team is here to help.

Serving Polk County and surrounding areas
Call us at (863) 686-0800
Visit us at www.cassidypsychiatry.com