Digital Addiction Declared a Mental Illness
A free anti-drug counseling session organized by Prothom Alo Trust on May 20, 2026, at Prothom Alo's office in Karwan Bazar, addressed the issue of digital addiction. Professor Dr. Mohit Kamal, former director of the National Institute of Mental Health, led the discussion, which focused on 'e-cigarettes are not an effective or safe alternative to quitting smoking.' The session also highlighted concerns beyond e-cigarettes, including mobile phone addiction and excessive use of platforms like TikTok. Dr. Kamal explained that the excessive use of mobile phones, TikTok, and gaming apps like PUBG and Free Fire triggers the release of dopamine in the brain, similar to the effect of drug consumption. This phenomenon, termed 'net addiction' or internet addiction, is classified as a mental illness. He warned that such addictions can severely impair a child's education, reduce cognitive abilities, and lead to extreme behavioral changes. Therefore, he stressed the importance of public awareness regarding these issues.
The classification of internet and mobile addiction as a mental illness, drawing parallels with drug dependency due to dopamine release, highlights a growing public health concern. This perspective frames excessive digital engagement not merely as a behavioral choice but as a condition requiring clinical attention, impacting cognitive function and social behavior. The analysis suggests a need for systemic interventions, potentially involving educational reforms, parental guidance frameworks, and the development of digital well-being strategies. Considering the pervasive nature of digital technologies, understanding the neurochemical underpinnings of addiction is crucial for developing effective prevention and treatment models in the coming decade. This also points to the responsibility of platform designers and regulators in mitigating addictive design elements.
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