Screen time and adolescent mental health: A study of emotional and psychological wellbeing in Hisar, Haryana

The rapid integration of digital devices into daily life has notably transformed adolescent lifestyles, prompting concerns about the potential implications of excessive screen exposure on their overall wellbeing. This descriptive survey study examined the relationship between screen usage patterns and thepsychological and emotionalof adolescents. A stratified random sample of 300 students aged 18 to 24 years was selected from government and private colleges situated in both urban and rural areas of Hisar, Haryana (India). Data were gathered through a self-structured questionnaire encompassing demographic details and five appendices assessing screen time and four dimensions of wellbeing. Statistical analysis, including descriptive measures and Pearson’s correlation revealed a significant positive correlation between higher screen time and adverse outcomes in all assessed wellbeing dimensions. Notably, emotional and psychological wellbeing exhibited the strongest associations, indicating that students with extended screen engagement are more susceptible to anxiety, mood disturbances, and reliance on digital feedback. Physical concerns such as headaches, sleep disruption, and inactivity were also prevalent, while social wellbeing was impacted by tendencies toward online interaction preference and reduced face-to-face socialization. The findings underscore the critical need for awareness initiatives targeting digital balance and mental health literacy among adolescents, parents, and educators. Future research should explore longitudinal trends and intervention-based approaches to mitigate the risks of digital overexposure. This study contributes to the growing body of Indian student’s mental health research in the digital context, offering valuable insights for educational and public health policy frameworks.