In today’s digital age, mobile phones have become an essential part of daily life, offering convenience, communication, and entertainment. However, their excessive use especially among children has led to a growing concern: mobile addiction. Children are spending more hours on screens than ever before, often at the cost of their physical health, emotional well-being, social development, and academic performance. Recent studies show that children aged 8–15 spend an average of 5 to 7 hours per day on mobile devices. This alarming trend has been linked to sleep disorders, attention problems, lack of outdoor activity, reduced face-to-face interaction, and even depression. Parents, educators, and society at large are beginning to witness the serious impacts of digital overexposure. To raise awareness and educate children in an engaging way, we have developed a short drama performance titled “Trapped in the Screen”. The play portrays the emotional, physical, and mental effects of mobile addiction through the story of a young child who becomes increasingly isolated and unhealthy due to constant screen time. With relatable characters and real-life scenarios, the drama encourages self-reflection and promotes healthier digital habits. This report aims to highlight the dangers of mobile addiction, present factual data on its impact, and provide tools and strategies for children, parents, and teachers to build healthier digital lifestyles. The drama will serve as a starting point for open discussions, classroom activities, and community awareness events.
OBJECTIVE OF THE PROGRAME:
- Educate children about the psychological, physical, and social impacts of excessive mobile use.
- Encourage self-regulation and responsible mobile phone habits from an early age.
- Engage children emotionally through a relatable drama performance that illustrates real-life consequences of mobile addiction.
- Involve parents and teachers in identifying early signs of mobile overuse and guiding children toward healthy digital behavior.
- Promote alternative activities such as outdoor play, reading, creative hobbies, and face-to-face interaction.
- Foster digital discipline by creating awareness campaigns, workshops, and discussions in schools and communities.
CONTENT OF THE PROGRAME:
On Monday, 18th August 2025, a special programme on Mobile Addiction Awareness held at Karthikeyan Govt. Aided Elementary School, organized by the Times Health Care Foundation & Charitable Trust, with the coordination of Gayathri and Mouniya. The event will begin with a warm welcome to all students, Teacher, and guests. The Chief Guest, a respected psychiatrist from EMME Psychiatry counselor honored for their contribution to child mental health. The programmed includes a welcome address by a school teacher, followed by a special speech from Headmistress Swetha Jeevanantham, highlighting the importance of raising awareness about mobile addiction among children. Prior to the event, students were given training sessions to prepare for a powerful drama performance, which portrays the negative effects of mobile phone overuse on young minds. After watching the drama, many students expressed fear and concern about the consequences of excessive mobile use, showing the performance’s strong emotional and educational impact. The event will conclude with a heartfelt vote of thanks delivered by Mouniya, appreciating all participants, organizers, and guests for their support and involvement in spreading awareness.
OUTCOME OF THE PROGRAME:
The Mobile Addiction Awareness Programme conducted on 18th August 2025 at Karthikeyan Govt. Aided Elementary School was highly impactful and successfully achieved its objectives. The participation of students, teachers, and mental health professionals made the event informative, engaging, and emotionally resonant. Students gained a clear understanding of the harmful effects of excessive mobile phone use, including its impact on physical health, mental well-being, academic performance, and social life. The drama performance effectively illustrated real-life consequences of mobile addiction, allowing students to connect emotionally with the issue. Many students, after watching the drama, expressed a sense of awareness and concern, showing a positive shift in their attitudes towards mobile phone usage.