Listen to Story With the rapid advancement of technology, young people are increasingly at risk of developing mental and personality disorders, as these issues often begin during adolescence. The ages between 15 and 25 are particularly vulnerable to these disorders because this is when personalities begin to form and solidify, according to psychiatrists. Dr Rakesh K Chadda, Head of the Psychiatry Department at Amrita Hospital, Faridabad, explained that there has been a significant increase in cases of Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder (EUPD), also known as borderline personality disorder, among young people over the past two decades.
"This condition is more common in females than in males. Untreated, it can severely impact social and occupational functioning , leading to co-occurring mental health issues like depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and an increased risk of suicide," explained Dr Chadda. There has been a significant increase in cases of Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder due to excessive screen time.
(Photo: Getty Images) He added that substance abuse, especially alcohol and illicit drugs, has also increased among people aged 15-25 with depression being more common in young women, and substance abuse more frequent in young men. Additionally, self-harm and anxiety disorders are more commonly seen in girls , indicating a gender difference in mental health issues. The rise of information technology, especially social media and online interactions, has had a negative impact on mental health.
Increased screen time has led to less physical activity, disrupted sleep patterns, and reduced face-to-face interactions, which are all essential for mental well-being. The expert quoted a recent study published in the Indian Journal of Psychiatry, which found that 22% of college students in India suffer from borderline personality disorder (BPD). Self-harm and anxiety disorders are more commonly seen in girls, indicating a gender difference in mental health issues.
(Photo: Getty Images) This is a significant increase from previous studies, showing a noticeable rise in BPD cases over the past decade . Dr Neatu Narang, Senior Consultant at Amrita Hospital, emphasised the importance of raising awareness about the harmful effects of excessive digital technology use among young people. She warned that overusing technology at the expense of physical exercise , social interaction, and healthy sleep patterns can lead to serious mental health issues.
Dr Narang stressed the need for lifestyle changes to counter these trends and urged that healthy habits and "responsible technology use" should be encouraged from early childhood. The risks of cybercrimes such as bullying, financial fraud, and exposure to inappropriate content are growing concerns as well, highlighted Dr Meenakshi Jain, Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Amrita Hospital. The increase in screen time, digital addiction, and cyberbullying further contributes to mental health problems, leading to low mood, social withdrawal, self-harm, and substance abuse.
Experts agree that promoting healthy lifestyles and proper technology use from a young age is crucial in preventing personality disorders and other mental health challenges in the future. Mental health professionals, parents, teachers, and policymakers all have a role to play in safeguarding the mental well-being of the youth..
