Why Night-Time Phone Use is Fueling Anxiety and Distress in Kids
Many Australian kids are losing sleep to late-night phone use. Psychologist Warren Kilburn shares insights on the impact - and how parents can step in.
The Hidden Cost of the Midnight Scroll
Screens are now part of childhood, but when a glowing phone replaces healthy sleep, the effects can be devastating. In my commentary published in The Herald Sun, The Age, The Courier-Mail, The West Australian, and The Mercury, I’ve shared insights into this growing national concern.
Children as young as five are staying up late glued to phones or gaming devices. What feels like harmless scrolling is fuelling anxiety, school refusal, and even suicidal thoughts. Since the pandemic, I’ve seen more teenagers caught in cycles of “doom-scrolling,” their minds racing long into the night.
What Psychologists Are Seeing
Compulsive night-time screen use is leaving kids:
- Exhausted - struggling to manage emotions and daily stress.
- Disconnected - pulling away from school, friendships, and family.
- At risk - some reporting suicidal thoughts linked to sleep loss and digital overwhelm.
These aren’t isolated cases - they represent a wider trend that is worrying families and clinicians alike.
What Parents Can Do
As parents, you have more influence than you think. Clear structure and modelling healthy habits can make a world of difference:
- Create no-phone zones - especially in bedrooms.
- Set device cut-off times - a simple nightly rule can reset the household routine.
- Model balance - show kids what it looks like to unplug.
- Encourage offline wind-downs - reading, gentle music, or quiet conversation.
- Stay alert - watch for warning signs of irritability, withdrawal, or plummeting mood.
Final Thoughts
Phone addiction is not just a bad habit - it’s a mental health risk. But with awareness, boundaries, and support, families can take steps to protect their children’s wellbeing.
➡️ If you’re worried about your child’s mental health or screen use, reach out. At Embed Psychology, we support families in building resilience, healthier routines, and stronger connections.