Due to the rapid advancement of technology, young people are at increased risk of developing mental and personality disorders, as these problems often begin during adolescence.

According to psychiatrists, people between the ages of 15 and 25 are particularly vulnerable to these disorders, as this is the time when personality begins to form and solidify.

Dr Rakesh K Chaddha, Head, Department of Psychiatry, Amrita Hospital, Faridabad, said that there has been a significant increase in cases of emotionally unstable personality disorder (EUPD), also known as borderline personality disorder, among youth in the last two decades.

“The condition is more common in women than men. If left untreated, it can severely impact social and occupational functioning, leading to mental health problems such as depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and an increased risk of suicide,” Dr Chaddha said.

He said substance abuse, particularly alcohol and illicit drugs, has also increased among people in the 15-25 year age group, and young women are more likely to suffer from depression and young men are more likely to suffer from substance abuse.

Additionally, self-harm and anxiety disorders are more commonly seen in girls, indicating gender differences in mental health issues.

The rise of information technology, particularly social media and online interactions, has had a negative impact on mental health. Increased screen time has led to reduced physical activity, disrupted sleep patterns and reduced face-to-face interactions, which are essential for mental health.

The expert cited a recent study published in the Indian Journal of Psychiatry, which found that 22% of college students in India suffer from borderline personality disorder (BPD).

This is a significant increase compared to previous studies, which showed a significant increase in BPD cases over the past decade.

Dr. Neetu Narang, Senior Consultant, Amrita Hospital, stressed on the importance of raising awareness among youth about the harmful effects of excessive use of digital technology.

He warned that excessive use of technology at the expense of physical exercise, social interaction and healthy sleep could lead to serious mental health problems.

Dr Narang stressed the need for lifestyle changes to combat these trends and urged that healthy habits and “responsible technology use” must be encouraged right from childhood.

Dr. Meenakshi Jain, Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Amrita Hospital, said that risks such as threats, financial fraud and exposure to inappropriate content due to cyber crimes are also becoming a matter of concern.

Increased screen time, digital addiction and cyber bullying contribute to mental health problems, leading to mood swings, social isolation, self-harm and substance abuse.

Experts agree that promoting healthy lifestyles and appropriate technology use from an early age is crucial to preventing personality disorders and other mental health challenges in the future. Mental health professionals, parents, educators, and policymakers all have a role to play in protecting the mental well-being of young people.