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As digital devices become an inseparable part of everyday life at home, school, and work health experts are raising concerns about the growing risk of problematic screen use and gaming addiction, especially among children and teenagers in the Hawkesbury region.
While most people use smartphones, streaming services, social media, and video games without serious issues, a small but significant number develop compulsive behaviours that interfere with their daily lives. The World Health Organization (WHO), which recognises gaming disorder as a formal mental health condition, notes that it affects only a small proportion of gamers. However, they emphasise that users should be alert to how much time they spend gaming particularly when it begins to exclude other daily activities.
Importantly, the problem isn’t the number of hours spent on screens, but how screen use impacts wellbeing, relationships, education, and mental health. “High use alone isn’t the problem,” researchers say. “Concern arises when people lose control over their screen habits, continue despite harm, or use screens as a primary way to cope with distress.”
Research suggests between three and five per cent of young people may show addiction-like patterns. Warning signs include irritability or anxiety when offline, neglecting school or work, social withdrawal, disrupted sleep, and declining mental health. Children as young as late primary school can be vulnerable, particularly when screen use replaces sleep, physical activity, or face-to-face socialising.
Modern games and apps are designed to be engaging, often using reward systems and social interaction to keep users connected longer. For most, this is harmless, but for some especially those dealing with anxiety, stress, or social isolation screens can become an escape that is difficult to leave.
“Gaming is a big part of my life. But sometimes it’s easy to spend more time than I planned, and that’s when it starts to affect other stuff like my sleep or studies" said Hayden, a local Hawkesbury gamer.
Mental health professionals caution against labelling all enthusiastic gamers as addicted. Many young people enjoy gaming intensively without negative effects. The key is recognising when screen use harms daily functioning.
Treatment focuses on restoring balance, not total abstinence. Cognitive behavioural therapy, structured routines, screen time limits, and addressing underlying mental health issues are common approaches.
Support for Hawkesbury residents
Families concerned about screen or gaming addiction can access support locally and nationally:
- Lifeline: 13 11 14 (24/7 crisis support)
- Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800 (ages 5–25, 24/7)
- Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
- Headspace: youth mental health support for ages 12–25 (headspace.org.au)
- NSW Health: local GPs can provide referrals to counselling and specialist services
- NSW Mental Health Access Line: 1800 011 511
Schools and community health services also offer early advice and assistance.
Experts agree early intervention is crucial. Addressing underlying issues alongside screen habits leads to the best outcomes for young people and families.
As screens continue to shape modern life in the Hawkesbury, health professionals emphasise that technology itself is not the enemy but balance, awareness, and support are more important than ever.
