Dr Rangan Chatterjee Screen Time Warning Sparks Debate
A new screen time warning from Rangan Chatterjee is gaining attention. The former GP says social media harms young people’s mental health. Therefore, he wants a ban on platforms for anyone under 18.
Chatterjee recalls treating a 16-year-old after self-harm. Instead of prescribing antidepressants, he reduced the teen’s evening device use. As a result, the boy’s mood improved within weeks. He now calls excessive screen exposure the most urgent public health issue. Moreover, he believes leaders have failed to regulate big tech. In his view, families need stronger safeguards.
Why He Wants Tougher Rules
Chatterjee argues that young brains are still developing. For example, the prefrontal cortex matures in the mid-20s. However, tech platforms encourage constant engagement. He links heavy device use to anxiety, poor sleep, and low self-esteem. In addition, studies show each extra hour online raises myopia risk. That trend worries many clinicians. Countries like Australia and Spain are exploring youth restrictions. Meanwhile, campaigners in the United Kingdom push for similar action. Chatterjee also criticizes tech leaders.
He says companies led by figures like Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg profit from longer usage. As a result, he doubts they will police themselves. At home, he limits his own children’s phone access. He avoids blame and shows empathy for busy parents. Screens, he says, often act as easy babysitters during stressful times. After leaving NHS practice, he now reaches millions through media work. Still, his message stays simple. Protect relationships, protect sleep, and protect attention. Ultimately, this screen time warning calls for balance. Chatterjee believes young people deserve a healthier digital future.
