(Arlington, VA) – A new study claims children who get a smartphone before the age of 13 have a higher suicide risk than other children. Researchers in Virginia tracked over 100-thousand smartphone users ages 18 to 24, and found those who had smartphones before the age of 13 showed much higher rates of suicidal thoughts and emotional issues. It found girls were especially affected, with 48 percent of those who got phones at an early age reporting suicidal thoughts. It also showed the impact of early smartphone use was worldwide, but that English-speaking countries reported the most severe effects.
If you or anyone you love is in need of help, the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline can be reached 24/7 by calling or texting 988.
Comments