The impact of smartphone use on childhood depression: A pediatric perspective

Abstract

Introduction: the profound social and family changes experienced in recent decades have also played a decisive role in the rise of depression, especially changes in family models, competition as the axis of life (which is more important than other dimensions of existence) and the availability of mass media, which promote personal distancing. Objectives: to describe the scientific evidence on the impact of smartphone use on childhood depression from a pediatric perspective and what are the underlying factors that influence this relationship. Methods: a search was conducted in Pubmed, Scopus, Web of Science from January 2000 to October 2023. Results: this systematic review included several studies that evaluated different mental health interventions in various populations. Overall, we found that interventions based on smartphones, online cognitive behavioral therapy, and telemedicine had a positive impact on mental health. For example, postnatal mothers who received smartphone interventions experienced a significant reduction in depression. In addition, online therapy was shown to alleviate parental anxiety and depression and improve their quality of life. However, some studies had limitations, such as small samples or lack of effect on certain outcomes. More research would be needed to fully understand the scope and efficacy of these digital interventions. Conclusion: this review highlights the promising efficacy of smartphone-based interventions to improve mental health in different populations. Despite limitations and challenges, the use of mobile technology in mental health care is an evolving area that could offer significant benefits in the future, transforming the way we approach and treat childhood mental health disorders.