He explained that prolonged exposure to digital screens causes an abnormal release of dopamine in the brain, a chemical associated with the brain's reward system. According to Dr. Weerasiriwardena, this response is similar to the dopamine release triggered by drug use, making excessive screen time potentially harmful over the long term.
Dr. Weerasiriwardena stressed that the belief that drugs provide pleasure is a myth, arguing that such perceptions have been deliberately promoted by drug trafficking networks to attract new users. He also noted that children raised in households where family members abuse drugs are more likely to experience psychological effects that could increase their risk of substance use later in life.
He further said that childhood mental health, adolescence, and genetic factors can all contribute to a person's susceptibility to addiction. Emphasising the role of parents, Dr. Weerasiriwardena said it is their responsibility to create a loving, supportive home environment while setting clear boundaries for children's smartphone use to help protect them from both digital and substance addiction.
