Senior Psychological Counsellor and Consultant Psychiatrist Dr. Chaminda Weerasiriwardena has warned that excessive use of smartphones for entertainment may gradually increase the risk of substance abuse, particularly among schoolchildren. He urged parents to guide their children to use smartphones responsibly and with discipline.
He made these remarks at a special media briefing held on Tuesday (22) at the Ratama Ekata National Operation Headquarters and Media Centre.
Dr. Weerasiriwardena explained that prolonged exposure to digital screens can trigger excessive dopamine release in the brain, similar to the chemical response associated with drug use. He stressed that this can have harmful effects on mental health and behaviour.
He also emphasized that drug use does not provide genuine enjoyment, describing the belief that it does as a false narrative promoted by drug trafficking networks.
The psychiatrist further noted that children growing up in families where substance abuse exists are more likely to be psychologically affected and may become vulnerable to drug use later in life. He added that childhood mental health issues and genetic factors can also contribute to the risk of addiction.
Dr. Weerasiriwardena stressed that creating a healthy home environment, while providing children with love, care, and guidance, is a key responsibility of parents in preventing substance abuse.
