health
February 16, 2026
‘It’s the most urgent public health issue’: Dr Rangan Chatterjee on screen time, mental health
The hit podcaster, author and former GP says a failure to regulate big tech is ‘failing a generation of children’. He explains why he quit the NHS and why he wants a ban on screen-based homework
TL;DR
- Dr. Rangan Chatterjee believes excessive screen time is the most pressing public health crisis, particularly for children.
- He observed a direct correlation between high screen use and mental health issues in young patients, leading him to advocate for screen-free periods before bedtime.
- Chatterjee criticizes governments for their perceived inaction and weak regulation of technology companies, stating they are 'failing a generation of children'.
- He calls for a legal age of 18 for social media use, comparing it to regulations for gambling and pornography.
- Harms associated with screen use include impacts on mental health, anxiety, sleep, posture, language delay in younger children, and increased risk of myopia.
- He highlights alarming statistics on children's exposure to pornography and violence online.
- Chatterjee emphasizes the need for a shift towards preventive healthcare, which he believes the NHS is not currently equipped to handle effectively.
- He shares personal experiences with racism and the pressure to succeed, which led him to re-evaluate his priorities and focus on relationships for happiness.
- Chatterjee advocates for living in alignment with one's values to achieve greater happiness and well-being.
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