Experts Say "Sleep More and Try a Digital Detox" in Response to the Rise in Teen Depression
- Gyeonghyun Cho
- 2 days ago
- 1 min read
April 26, 2025
Gyeonhyun Cho
More Korean teenagers than ever before are experiencing anxiety and depression, according to a recent nationwide survey. About one in three middle and high school students reported feeling depressed or hopeless frequently in the previous year, according to a study conducted by the Ministries of Education and Health and Welfare.
According to mental health experts, excessive screen time, lack of sleep, and academic stress are the main causes. Using a smartphone before bed make it harder for the brain to relax and get a good night's sleep.
Dr. Kim Jeongah, a child psychiatrist at Seoul National University Hospital, says teens need at least eight hours of sleep because their brains are still developing. A "digital detox," or going an hour a day without using a phone, can make a big difference.
Instead of keeping their feelings to themselves, experts advise teenagers to talk about them with parents, friends, or teachers. Simple activities like taking a short walk or enjoying some sunshine can help you feel better.
As teen mental health becomes a more urgent issue, many schools are now considering expanding their counseling and mental health education programs to better support their students.
