{"id":44413,"date":"2026-06-19T11:19:03","date_gmt":"2026-06-19T11:19:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/insider18.com\/?p=44413"},"modified":"2026-06-19T11:36:09","modified_gmt":"2026-06-19T11:36:09","slug":"doctors-warn-of-children-sacrificing-sleep-and-nutrition-due-to-excessive-social-media-use-in-uae","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/insider18.com\/index.php\/2026\/06\/19\/doctors-warn-of-children-sacrificing-sleep-and-nutrition-due-to-excessive-social-media-use-in-uae\/","title":{"rendered":"Doctors Warn of Children Sacrificing Sleep and Nutrition Due to Excessive Social Media Use in UAE."},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

As concerns grow over the impact of excessive social media use among young people, experts are emphasizing that protecting children\u2019s mental health requires a collective effort involving families, schools, and the wider community. While government regulations can help create boundaries, specialists say children also need guidance and support to develop balanced and responsible digital habits.<\/p>

The discussion comes as the UAE takes steps to limit social media access for younger users. Mental health professionals have welcomed the move, saying they are increasingly encountering children and teenagers whose online activity is beginning to affect important areas of their lives, including sleep patterns, academic performance, self-esteem, relationships, and emotional wellbeing.<\/p>

A new resolution issued on June 18 introduced restrictions preventing children under the age of 15 from creating or operating personal social media accounts, as well as limiting access to the full range of platform features. The decision has received support from healthcare professionals, who have highlighted the growing concerns surrounding excessive screen time and the addictive nature of many online platforms.<\/p>

Doctors and counsellors say that while social media can offer opportunities for communication, learning, and entertainment, uncontrolled use can create unhealthy patterns, especially among children who are still developing emotional regulation and self-discipline.<\/p>

Healthcare specialists have reported seeing cases where young users become deeply absorbed in online content, spending long periods scrolling through platforms without realizing how much time has passed. Some children reportedly remain awake late into the night using social media, reducing the amount of rest they receive and affecting their ability to concentrate during the day.<\/p>

Others have developed habits where online activity takes priority over basic daily needs. Experts say some young people delay meals, avoid physical activity, or ignore family interactions because they are focused on staying connected online. Over time, these behaviors can contribute to changes in mood, reduced motivation, and difficulties maintaining healthy routines.<\/p>

Dr Shahana Kasim, specialist psychiatrist at NMC Specialty Hospital in Abu Dhabi, explained that she has worked with children whose social media habits became so excessive that they began interfering with normal daily activities.<\/p>

She noted that in more serious situations, digital overuse can impact multiple areas of a child\u2019s life, including education, sleep, family relationships, personal interests, and real-world friendships. According to her, the issue is not simply the amount of time spent online but the way social media begins to replace important aspects of a child\u2019s development.<\/p>

\u201cIn some cases, children spend several hours continuously scrolling through content without any clear purpose,\u201d she explained. She added that she has encountered situations where young people spent five or six hours on social media platforms while neglecting essential activities such as sleeping properly, eating meals, taking breaks, or maintaining personal routines.<\/p>

Mental health professionals say one of the warning signs parents should pay attention to is emotional distress when access to devices or social media is reduced. Some children may become unusually frustrated, anxious, or upset when they are asked to disconnect from their online activities.<\/p>

Experts explain that this reaction can indicate that a child has developed an unhealthy dependence on digital platforms. Instead of using social media as one part of their daily routine, they may begin relying on it as their primary source of entertainment, social interaction, or emotional escape.<\/p>

Doctors emphasize that the solution is not simply removing technology from children\u2019s lives. Digital platforms are now an important part of modern communication, education, and social connection. Instead, the focus should be on helping children understand how to use technology safely and responsibly.<\/p>

Parents play a particularly important role in creating healthy digital environments at home. Specialists recommend setting clear boundaries around screen time, encouraging children to take regular breaks, and ensuring that devices do not interfere with sleep, meals, family conversations, or physical activity.<\/p>

They also encourage parents to engage with children about their online experiences rather than focusing only on restrictions. Understanding what children watch, who they interact with, and how social media affects their emotions can help families address problems before they become more serious.<\/p>

Schools and communities also have an important role in supporting children\u2019s digital wellbeing. Experts suggest that schools can help by teaching students about responsible internet use, online safety, and the importance of maintaining balance between virtual and real-life experiences.<\/p>

Counsellors believe that children need practical skills to manage technology effectively. Learning how to recognize unhealthy habits, control screen time, and maintain meaningful offline relationships can help young people develop healthier relationships with digital platforms.<\/p>

Mental health professionals also point out that children often imitate behaviors they observe around them. When parents and adults demonstrate balanced technology use, children are more likely to adopt similar habits. Creating a healthy digital culture within families can therefore have a significant influence on children\u2019s behavior.<\/p>

The introduction of social media restrictions for younger users is seen by doctors as one step toward addressing the issue, but they stress that long-term solutions require cooperation between policymakers, families, educators, and healthcare providers.<\/p>

Experts say the goal should not be to completely separate children from technology but to ensure that digital tools support their growth rather than negatively affecting their physical and emotional health.<\/p>

As the UAE continues to address the challenges associated with increased digital exposure among young people, mental health specialists believe that awareness, education, and guidance will be essential. Helping children build healthier online habits from an early age can allow them to benefit from technology while protecting their overall wellbeing.<\/p>

The growing conversation around social media use highlights a broader challenge faced by families worldwide: finding the right balance between staying connected online and maintaining the habits that support healthy development. Through combined efforts from parents, schools, communities, and health professionals, children can be better equipped to navigate the digital world safely and responsibly.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t

\n\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

When a child stays awake until 2am<\/h3>

Medical experts say the consequences of excessive social media use among children are not limited to the amount of time spent looking at screens. In many cases, the effects can spread into different areas of a child\u2019s life, influencing sleep patterns, emotional health, school performance, confidence, and relationships.<\/p>

Doctors explain that the visible habit of constantly using a phone or browsing online content is often only one part of a larger problem. The hidden effects, such as lack of rest, reduced attention span, mood changes, and declining interest in everyday activities, can sometimes be more concerning.<\/p>

Dr Diya Abdul Rasheed, specialist pediatrician at Medeor Hospital Dubai, shared the experience of a young patient whose struggles initially appeared to be related to a possible medical condition but were later linked to unhealthy digital habits.<\/p>

The patient, a 13-year-old boy, was brought to the clinic after his parents became concerned about noticeable changes in his behaviour and performance at school. They had observed that he was no longer behaving like himself and that his academic results, which had previously remained strong, were beginning to suffer.<\/p>

The teenager had started experiencing difficulties with concentration and appeared increasingly anxious. His teachers also noticed that he was frequently tired during lessons and sometimes struggled to stay awake in the classroom. The combination of emotional changes, reduced focus, and declining grades caused concern for his family, who feared there might be an underlying health issue.<\/p>

Believing that the problem could be related to a physical condition, his parents decided to seek medical advice. They arranged for him to undergo tests, including blood examinations, to identify whether nutritional deficiencies or another medical concern could explain the changes they were seeing.<\/p>

However, the results did not reveal any health problems. The medical assessments showed that there were no obvious physical causes behind his symptoms. This led doctors and the family to take a closer look at his daily routine, lifestyle, and habits outside school.<\/p>

During these discussions, an important detail emerged. Although his parents believed he was following a regular bedtime routine and going to sleep around 9pm, the reality was very different. After entering his room, he was secretly using his phone without their knowledge.<\/p>

The teenager had developed a habit of staying awake late at night while using his device. Instead of sleeping, he spent hours browsing social media and online content, sometimes continuing until around 2am. This meant he was getting far less sleep than his parents realized.<\/p>

Doctors explained that insufficient sleep can have a significant impact on children and teenagers, particularly during important stages of physical, emotional, and cognitive development. When young people consistently lose sleep, it can affect their ability to focus, regulate emotions, process information, and perform well academically.<\/p>

In this case, the lack of proper rest gradually began affecting multiple areas of the teenager\u2019s life. His concentration became weaker, his confidence declined, and his emotional wellbeing was affected. The issue was not simply that he was spending time online; it was that his online activity was disrupting essential parts of his daily routine.<\/p>

Following discussions with the medical team, counselling sessions were arranged involving both the teenager and his parents. The focus was not only on reducing phone use but also on helping the family understand the reasons behind the behaviour and creating healthier habits.<\/p>

Through guidance and support, the teenager gradually improved his sleeping pattern. As he began getting enough rest, his concentration improved, his emotional state became more stable, and his overall wellbeing started to recover.<\/p>

Dr Diya said the case demonstrated why parents and caregivers should look beyond the obvious signs of excessive technology use. A child spending significant time on social media may not only be facing a problem related to screen exposure but may also be experiencing a chain reaction of effects caused by disrupted routines.<\/p>

According to him, the concern is not limited to addiction in the traditional sense. The larger issue is how digital habits influence important aspects of a child\u2019s life. Excessive use can interfere with healthy sleep, reduce academic engagement, weaken confidence, and contribute to emotional difficulties.<\/p>

Doctors say many parents may not immediately connect these changes with social media use because the symptoms can resemble other problems. A child who becomes withdrawn, performs poorly at school, feels anxious, or struggles with attention may appear to have an unrelated medical or psychological issue.<\/p>

Healthcare professionals encourage parents to pay closer attention to children\u2019s daily patterns, including bedtime routines, device usage, mood changes, and changes in school performance. Small changes in behaviour can sometimes provide early signs that a child\u2019s relationship with technology has become unhealthy.<\/p>

Experts also emphasize that addressing the issue requires understanding rather than only punishment. Simply taking away a device may not solve the underlying problem. Children often need guidance on managing screen time, developing healthier routines, and finding balance between online activities and real-world experiences.<\/p>

Families are encouraged to create open conversations about digital habits, allowing children to discuss what they do online and how they feel about their experiences. This approach can help parents identify concerns earlier and provide support before the situation becomes more serious.<\/p>

Doctors also highlight the importance of creating technology-free periods, especially before bedtime. Establishing consistent sleep routines, encouraging physical activity, and promoting hobbies outside screens can help children maintain a healthier lifestyle.<\/p>

The case shared by Dr Diya reflects a broader concern among healthcare professionals as children spend increasing amounts of time connected to digital platforms. While technology can provide many benefits, experts stress that it must be used in a way that supports rather than harms a child\u2019s development.<\/p>

The message from doctors is clear: the impact of excessive social media use goes far beyond the device itself. When digital habits begin affecting sleep, confidence, learning, and emotional health, they can influence a child\u2019s overall quality of life.<\/p>

By recognizing warning signs early and supporting children in developing balanced routines, parents and communities can help young people build a healthier relationship with technology while protecting their long-term wellbeing.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t

\n\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\"\"\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\"\"\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

\u00a0<\/h3>

When likes become self-worth<\/h3>

Mental health specialists say another concerning effect of excessive social media use among young people is the way online reactions can begin to influence how they see themselves. For some children and teenagers, digital approval has become closely connected with their confidence, making their emotions heavily dependent on the response they receive from others online.<\/p>

Experts explain that many young users now measure their popularity, acceptance, and even personal value through indicators such as likes, comments, shares, and follower numbers. While these features may appear harmless, they can create pressure for children who start believing that online attention reflects their importance or success.<\/p>

When a post receives a large number of reactions, some young people may experience a temporary boost in confidence. However, when content does not perform as expected, they may feel disappointed, ignored, or less valued. Over time, this repeated cycle of seeking approval and facing disappointment can negatively affect emotional wellbeing, particularly among children who are already dealing with insecurity or emotional challenges.<\/p>

Mental health professionals say this pattern has become increasingly common as social media platforms place strong emphasis on visibility and engagement. Young users are constantly exposed to images, lifestyles, and achievements shared by others, which can encourage comparison and create unrealistic expectations about how they should look, behave, or be perceived.<\/p>

Dr Amir Javaid, director of psychiatry and intellectual disorders and consultant psychiatrist at Burjeel Medical City, explained that some young people begin to connect their sense of self-worth with the level of attention they receive online.<\/p>

He noted that changes in digital engagement, such as gaining or losing followers, receiving fewer comments, or seeing lower interaction on posts, can influence a child\u2019s emotions and confidence. According to him, these changes may have a stronger effect on individuals who are already emotionally sensitive or experiencing difficulties with self-esteem.<\/p>

Experts say that during childhood and adolescence, identity and confidence are still developing. At this stage of life, young people are naturally more concerned about acceptance and belonging. When social media becomes the main source of validation, online reactions can begin to carry too much emotional importance.<\/p>

A teenager who repeatedly checks whether a post has received enough attention may begin to depend on external approval rather than developing confidence based on personal achievements, relationships, skills, and real-life experiences. This can create a situation where self-esteem becomes unstable because it is constantly influenced by factors outside the individual\u2019s control.<\/p>

Dr Shahana Kasim, specialist psychiatrist at NMC Specialty Hospital in Abu Dhabi, said she has noticed similar patterns among adolescents experiencing difficulties linked to social media use. She explained that some children start to judge their own value based on how others respond to their online presence.<\/p>

According to her, positive feedback on social media can temporarily improve a young person\u2019s mood, while a lack of engagement can lead to feelings of disappointment or sadness. This emotional dependence on online reactions can make children more vulnerable to stress and anxiety.<\/p>

Mental health experts emphasize that the problem is not simply that children use social media or enjoy sharing content online. Digital platforms can provide opportunities for creativity, communication, and learning. The concern arises when online approval becomes a primary source of confidence and emotional reassurance.<\/p>

Specialists say parents should pay attention to changes in behaviour, especially if a child becomes overly focused on checking notifications, comparing themselves with others, or showing strong emotional reactions to online feedback.<\/p>

Warning signs may include spending excessive time trying to improve online popularity, feeling upset when posts receive fewer reactions, avoiding activities because of concerns about appearance or acceptance, or constantly comparing personal life with the carefully selected images presented by others online.<\/p>

Doctors explain that social media often presents an incomplete picture of reality. Many users share only their happiest moments, achievements, or carefully edited images, which can lead others to compare their everyday experiences with unrealistic portrayals.<\/p>

For young people who are still developing their identity, these comparisons can create feelings of inadequacy. They may begin to believe they are not successful, attractive, or interesting enough because their lives do not match what they see online.<\/p>

Experts encourage families to help children understand that digital popularity does not determine personal value. Building confidence through friendships, education, hobbies, physical activities, creativity, and personal growth can provide a more stable foundation for self-esteem.<\/p>

Parents are also encouraged to maintain open conversations about social media experiences. Rather than focusing only on limiting screen time, specialists suggest discussing how online content makes children feel and helping them recognize when digital habits begin affecting their emotions.<\/p>

Schools and communities can also support children by promoting awareness about healthy technology use and teaching young people how to navigate online spaces responsibly. Developing digital awareness from an early age can help children understand both the benefits and challenges of social media.<\/p>

Mental health professionals stress that emotional resilience is an important skill in the digital age. Children need to learn that online reactions are temporary and do not define their abilities, personality, or worth.<\/p>

As social media continues to become a major part of young people\u2019s lives, experts believe the focus should be on balance. The goal is not to remove technology completely but to ensure that children use it in ways that support their confidence, relationships, and overall wellbeing.<\/p>

The growing concern among doctors highlights a broader issue: for many young users, the online world is no longer separate from real life. The emotions, pressures, and expectations created on digital platforms can directly influence how they think about themselves.<\/p>

By helping children build confidence beyond social media and encouraging healthier digital habits, families and communities can reduce the risks associated with online validation and support young people in developing a stronger sense of identity.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t

\n\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

Anxiety, exclusion and online pressure<\/h3>

Mental health professionals are also noticing a rise in anxiety among children and teenagers that is closely connected to their experiences online. Experts say that as social media and digital platforms become a central part of young people\u2019s social lives, many feel increasing pressure to stay constantly connected, updated, and involved.<\/p>

For many adolescents, being active online is no longer viewed as optional. Group conversations, friendships, event planning, and everyday interactions often take place through messaging apps and social platforms. As a result, some children worry that stepping away from these platforms\u2014even for short periods\u2014could mean missing important conversations or losing their connection with friends.<\/p>

Counsellors explain that this fear of being left out can create significant emotional stress. Young people may feel pressured to check notifications frequently, respond quickly to messages, and follow online trends simply to remain part of their social circles.<\/p>

Carolyn Yaffe, counsellor and cognitive behaviour therapist at Medcare Camali Clinic, said she has observed many children experiencing emotional difficulties because of the growing role digital platforms play in their relationships.<\/p>

She explained that some teenagers feel excluded when they are not included in online conversations or when they are unaware of popular trends circulating among their peers. Since many friendships and social activities now continue through digital spaces, being disconnected can sometimes make young people feel isolated.<\/p>

According to Yaffe, online exclusion can have a powerful emotional impact. Children may feel as though they are missing out on important moments, private conversations, or shared experiences among friends. In some cases, this feeling of being outside the group can contribute to loneliness, insecurity, and increased anxiety.<\/p>

She noted that digital platforms can sometimes amplify traditional forms of peer pressure. In the past, social interactions mainly happened face-to-face, but today, many social experiences continue online around the clock. This means that disagreements, misunderstandings, or exclusion can follow children beyond school hours and enter their personal spaces at home.<\/p>

Experts say that one of the biggest challenges is that online experiences can feel very real and immediate to young users. A negative comment, being removed from a group chat, or seeing others participate in activities without them can create strong emotional reactions.<\/p>

Yaffe shared the case of a teenager she supported who experienced severe anxiety after personal information and private photographs were shared online without permission. The incident had a serious effect on the young person\u2019s emotional wellbeing and changed how they interacted with others.<\/p>

Following the incident, the teenager faced embarrassment and distress as the situation spread among peers. The experience resulted in social withdrawal, with the young person feeling uncomfortable around others and eventually refusing to attend school.<\/p>

The case, according to Yaffe, demonstrated how online situations can create consequences that extend far beyond the digital environment. Although the incident occurred on a screen, the emotional effects were experienced in everyday life, affecting confidence, relationships, and education.<\/p>

Mental health professionals say such situations highlight the importance of teaching children about online safety, privacy, and responsible digital behaviour. Young people need support in understanding that actions taken online can have lasting effects and that they should know how to respond when they encounter harmful situations.<\/p>

Counsellors also encourage parents to maintain open communication with their children about their online experiences. Rather than assuming that digital problems are minor, families should take concerns seriously and create an environment where children feel comfortable discussing issues such as online pressure, bullying, or exclusion.<\/p>

Experts emphasize that children often struggle silently because they fear making situations worse or losing access to their devices. Some may avoid telling adults about negative online experiences because they worry they will be blamed or have their internet access removed.<\/p>

Building trust between parents and children can help identify problems earlier. When young people know they can talk openly about what happens online, they are more likely to seek help before anxiety or distress becomes overwhelming.<\/p>

Schools also have an important role in addressing the impact of online interactions on students\u2019 mental health. Counsellors suggest that educational institutions should provide guidance on digital citizenship, respectful online communication, and ways to manage pressure from social media.<\/p>

While online platforms provide opportunities for connection and creativity, specialists stress that children need support in creating a healthy balance between digital and real-world experiences. Strong friendships, hobbies, physical activity, and face-to-face communication remain important parts of emotional development.<\/p>

Experts say the goal is not to eliminate technology from children\u2019s lives but to help them use it in a way that protects their mental health. Learning how to handle online criticism, manage social pressure, and maintain personal boundaries can help young people navigate digital spaces more confidently.<\/p>

The experiences shared by counsellors reflect a wider concern about how deeply online interactions can influence children\u2019s emotional lives. What happens on social media does not always stay online; it can affect how young people feel, behave, and interact in the real world.<\/p>

As digital platforms continue to shape the way young people communicate, specialists believe that awareness, guidance, and support from families, schools, and communities will be essential in helping children develop healthier relationships with technology.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t

\n\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

‘A false life that is not really true’<\/h3>

Pratibha Tiwari, an emotional intelligence coach and youth leadership development specialist, said one of the growing challenges among young people today is their difficulty in separating the image created online from the reality of everyday life.<\/p>

She explained that many teenagers and young adults are increasingly influenced by the lifestyles they see on social media, where people often present carefully selected versions of themselves. This can create unrealistic expectations and lead some young users to believe that online popularity, appearance, and material possessions are the main indicators of success or happiness.<\/p>

According to Tiwari, some young people begin comparing their own lives with the carefully edited content they see online. Over time, they may start chasing an idealized version of success that is based more on digital approval than on personal growth, learning, or genuine achievements.<\/p>

She noted that trends, online challenges, and influencer culture can have a powerful impact on young minds. For some children, staying updated with the newest fashion, owning the latest technology, or following what is considered popular among peers can become a major priority.<\/p>

Tiwari explained that items such as expensive phones, fashionable products, and social media visibility may sometimes become symbols of acceptance among young people. The desire to appear successful or \u201cup to date\u201d can influence their decisions and shape how they view themselves and others.<\/p>

However, she warned that this focus on external validation can distract young people from more meaningful areas of development. Adolescence is an important period when individuals build confidence, discover their interests, develop skills, and prepare for future goals. Spending excessive time chasing online trends may reduce the attention given to these important aspects of personal growth.<\/p>

She expressed concern that some young people are becoming overly absorbed in maintaining an online image rather than investing time in real-world experiences. Developing communication skills, exploring career opportunities, learning new abilities, and building emotional strength are essential parts of growing up, she said.<\/p>

Tiwari emphasized that social media itself is not the problem. Digital platforms can provide valuable opportunities for creativity, learning, networking, and self-expression. The concern arises when young people allow online trends and digital approval to become the main measure of their identity and achievements.<\/p>

She encouraged parents, educators, and communities to help children develop stronger self-awareness and emotional intelligence. Young people need guidance in understanding that their worth is not determined by followers, likes, possessions, or how closely they match online trends.<\/p>

Experts believe that helping children build confidence outside the digital world is essential. Encouraging hobbies, education, meaningful relationships, and personal achievements can help young people develop a more balanced sense of identity.<\/p>

Tiwari added that the most important investment young people can make is in themselves\u2014through learning, developing abilities, understanding their strengths, and preparing for their future. While online platforms may influence modern lifestyles, she said, they should not replace the real-life experiences that help individuals grow and succeed.<\/p>

The challenge for today\u2019s generation is learning how to benefit from technology without allowing it to define their values, priorities, or sense of self. With the right guidance, young people can use digital platforms positively while continuing to focus on the skills and qualities that will shape their future.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t

\n\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

More than just restrictions<\/h3>

Although experts welcome steps designed to create safer online environments for children, they emphasize that restrictions by themselves cannot address all the challenges linked to digital use. Limiting access may help reduce certain risks, but long-term solutions require guidance, awareness, and support from families, schools, and communities.<\/p>

Specialists believe children need more than rules around screen time. They also need to learn how to use technology responsibly, recognize potential dangers online, manage their emotions, and maintain a healthy balance between their digital and real-world experiences.<\/p>

Parents play a key role in helping children develop positive online habits by encouraging open conversations about what they do on the internet, what content they encounter, and how online interactions make them feel. Schools and communities can also contribute by teaching digital awareness and helping young people build confidence through activities, relationships, and skills outside social media.<\/p>

Dr Shahana explained that the focus should not be on removing technology completely from children\u2019s lives. Digital platforms are now an important part of education, communication, and modern society, and young people need the ability to use them in a safe and balanced way.<\/p>

She said the aim should be to guide children toward developing a responsible relationship with technology rather than simply preventing access. Helping young users understand when digital habits become unhealthy can allow them to benefit from technology while protecting their mental and emotional wellbeing.<\/p>

Experts stress that the ultimate goal is creating a generation that can navigate the online world with awareness and confidence. With the right support, children can learn to use digital tools positively without allowing social media or technology to negatively influence their identity, health, or daily lives.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t

\n\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\"\"\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Health specialists in the UAE are expressing concern over a growing trend of children spending so much time on social media that they are neglecting proper sleep and regular meals.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":44421,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"pmpro_default_level":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[9],"tags":[],"post_template":[],"top_category":[],"class_list":["post-44413","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-uae","pmpro-has-access"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/insider18.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/44413","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/insider18.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/insider18.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/insider18.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/insider18.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=44413"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/insider18.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/44413\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":44430,"href":"https:\/\/insider18.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/44413\/revisions\/44430"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/insider18.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/44421"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/insider18.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=44413"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/insider18.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=44413"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/insider18.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=44413"},{"taxonomy":"post_template","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/insider18.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/post_template?post=44413"},{"taxonomy":"top_category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/insider18.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/top_category?post=44413"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}