1. Digital addiction

Social networks are not just apps on the phone. For teenagers, they have become a world: idols live there, trends are formed there, and it is there that a teenager seeks confirmation of his or her value.

– TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat are especially popular among girls. Why? Because it is important to be “in the know”, follow fashion, shoot stock, get likes. This is a way of self-expression and entering society. Idols are bloggers, influencers who dictate style, jokes, even types of clothing.

– Online games (CS:GO, Fortnite, Genshin Impact) – attract guys. Everything is simple here: the game is a zone of achievements, status and team. Here you are a hero, even if you feel invisible at school. Gaming culture and streaming are a lifestyle and “your party”.

– Panic without the Internet? This is FOMO – the fear of missing out. Lack of access means “being out of life” – out of the news, jokes, memes, friends’ messages.

2. Depending on psychoactive substances

It would seem that this has long passed? No. It’s just that the forms and packaging have changed.

– Vapes, snus, electronic cigarettes – look safer, but create a quick addiction. Why is it so addictive? Because it’s “fashionable”, because everyone “vapes”, because it reduces anxiety.

– Alcohol – for confidence, to “relax” or be “like adults”. It is especially dangerous when a teenager drinks alone.

– Cannabis, microdosing – “fashionable” among those who are interested in the topics of development, spirituality, self-knowledge. But often it is an escape from emotional pain or internal conflicts.

3. Behavioral and emotional addiction

This is an addiction that is not immediately visible.

– Constantly updating the feed, dependence on likes as the only form of approval. Teenagers are not waiting for their parents’ attention, but emojis in the comments.

– Procrastination, avoidance of reality – a way to escape from the fear of mistakes or overwork.

– Escape to fantasy or the digital world – a “shell” from criticism, lack of understanding or internal pain.

What parents should pay attention to?

Emotional signals:
– “I don’t care”, “Nobody needs me”, “You won’t understand me”;
– frequent mood swings, anxiety, irritability.

Behavioral signs:
– isolation, ignoring communication;
– sleep disturbance, night mode;
– loss of interest in favorite activities;
– Skipping classes, new amazing surroundings.

Physical manifestations:
– chronic fatigue, sudden weight change;
– signs of use (smell, appearance, objects);
– self-harm, neglect of hygiene.

What parents can do?

1. Talk, don’t interrogate:
– “How are you feeling?” is better than “Where have you been?”
– Be interested in their world – without criticism.

2. React, don’t ignore:
– Record changes in mood, sleep, behavior.
– If necessary – contact a psychologist or doctor.

3. Agree:
– Create digital rules together (for example, no phone at the table).
– Support real-life activities: sports, creativity, volunteering.

4. Become a safe space:
– The child should know: he is loved even when he is not perfect.

Conclusion

Modern teenagers are not weaker, but different. Their world is complex, fast, sometimes cruel. And when they are silent, joke or leave – it is not always a protest.

It can be a cry for help. And it is the adult who does not judge, but accepts, who can become their beacon in the storm.

Addiction does not begin with a cigarette or a phone. It begins with the feeling that no one needs you.