Digital Cocaine: Why I Hate the Internet and If You Have Kids, Why You Should Too

The internet is an inseparable part of our lives today. While it brings countless benefits—instant access to just about anything from information to entertainment and instant global connectivity—its darker side is only just beginning to fully emerge. The profound effect on children’s mental health is only surfacing now as the first generation of “digital literates” reaches adulthood.

The Impact on Attention Span, Cognitive Development, and Addiction

It’s no secret that the most concerning aspect of internet usage among children is its impact on attention span and cognitive development. The internet provides, promotes, and targets constant stimulation through rapid content consumption, which hinders focus. Task-switching and notifications lead to an inability to sustain attention on a single task.

In fact, in a Neuropsychology Review, 30 studies on the correlation between screen use and mental health were analyzed, showing clear results that excessive use of digital devices leads to poorer performance in school, social isolation, and cognitive impairments similar to what is observed with substance abuse.

We are at a critical moment in time that screams for the need for moderation and accountability. The internet is addictive. If you don’t believe me, lock your phone up for a day and see how long it takes before you start getting anxious about missing emails, texts, or directions, or knowing how many steps you’ve taken.

And all of these neuropsychological factors come into play before we even think about the rise in cyberbullying—which, unlike traditional bullying, is a 24/7 ordeal for the victim. Then there’s the social comparison and self-esteem issues. I’d be lying if, as a single mom, I haven’t hated the perfect Instagram mothers with their perfect cookies for the school bake sale. Young kids today are particularly vulnerable when comparing themselves to online perfection, yielding increased feelings of inadequacy, low self-esteem, and distorted self-images.

Where does this all lead? Major increases in cutting, self-harm, and suicide. And all of that before they have even potentially been exposed to inappropriate content. According to Internet Matters, many children under the age of 13 have been exposed to disturbing and violent content, such as beheadings, despite parental controls and age restrictions. And according to Staying Safe Online, a significant number of young kids have been exposed to highly inappropriate and traumatic content. For example, around 42% of 10- to 17-year-olds have encountered pornography, with 27% intentionally viewing such materials. Additionally, studies indicate that 70% of kids encounter sexual or violent content while doing research for school assignments.

There are no guardrails.

Enough with parental controls and limiting screen time. It's time to face the truth: the digital landscape is a battlefield for our children's minds. We must take immediate, decisive action to hold tech companies accountable and safeguard the mental health of future generations. Let's demand stringent regulations, enforce transparency, and champion digital literacy to protect our kids from the hidden dangers of the internet. Our children’s mental health, well-being, and the future of society are at stake.

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