Mental health specialists have raised concerns over a growing emotional and psychological crisis among children, citing long parental working hours and uncontrolled access to technology as major factors.
Many parents spend extended hours at work, limiting emotional bonding with their children. Meanwhile, rapid digital expansion, particularly social media, exposes young people to inappropriate content, affecting their mental well-being.
Recent data from the World Health Organization (WHO) indicates that one in twenty children aged 10 to 19 shows signs of mental health issues linked to excessive or unsuitable social media use.
Dr. Rukundo, a child and adolescent mental health specialist, expressed concern:
“When a 12-year-old watches movies intended for adults, it harms rather than builds their mental development. We are seeing more children struggling emotionally because they are exposed to content that is not appropriate for their age.”
He emphasized that a child’s mental and emotional development begins before birth, highlighting the importance of maternal bonding:
“A child starts to experience emotions and movement before birth. Their mental health is influenced by the bond they share with their mother during pregnancy. That is why some babies may be born appearing emotionally unresponsive.”
Experts are urging parents to monitor screen time, foster emotional interaction at home, and seek early psychological support when needed.
