Muscat: The Ministry of Health (MoH) urged families to be vigilant about the excessive use of electronic devices among children during the summer break.
It said that such behaviour may signal early signs of digital addiction.
In an awareness poster on its official X platform, the MoH listed several behavioural indicators that could point to unhealthy dependence on screens, including frequent mood swings, neglect of social or academic life, and reduced interest in offline activities.
Among the most notable warning signs are excessive use of electronic devices, lack of self-control over screen time, and compulsive checking of text messages or notifications, MoH affirmed.
The ministry noted that affected individuals may exhibit withdrawal symptom like as anxiety, irritability, or Danger, when not using electronic devices.
Other red flags include persistent sleep disturbances, signs of depression, and ongoing stress.
The ministry added that children may lose interest in everything unrelated to the internet.
Speaking about this issue, Shamsa al Siyabi, a mother of two, said her five-year-old daughter had become addicted to YouTube.
However, after following advice to remove the phone from her child’s reach, she observed a significant improvement in her daughter’s erratic behaviour.
Meanwhile, the ministry stressed the importance of balanced digital habits and encouraged parents to actively monitor screen time and promote alternative, non-digital activities to support the healthy development of children.
The ministry seeks to promote mental well-being and responsible technology use during school vacations.
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