ADHD with Mobile Addiction

A 13-year-old adolescent male from an upper-middle-class background initially presented with a longstanding history of hyperactivity, behavioral dysregulation, and excessive screen use. His symptoms began in early childhood and intensified during the COVID-19 lockdown, when caregivers observed excessive mobile phone use and increasing emotional outbursts. Over time, his behavior escalated to include aggression, demanding behavior, and school refusal. He withdrew from academic and social activities, spending most of his time on digital platforms and online games. These patterns significantly impacted his family dynamics and daily functioning.

Developmentally, he was born full-term with no major delays and had previously maintained satisfactory academic performance. He was described as a pampered and stubborn child with a history of hyperactivity. Family history revealed psychiatric concerns across three generations, including parental depression. Despite these challenges, the adolescent has shown marked improvement with consistent therapeutic intervention and structured behavioral support. He is currently stable, attending school regularly, and engaging in therapy with a respectful and cooperative attitude. His progress reflects the positive impact of a multidisciplinary approach, including behavioral therapy, digital hygiene strategies, and family involvement. Continued support is recommended to sustain gains and promote adaptive functioning across settings.