Avoid Reel Addiction

The rise of short videos on platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook has created a new social problem. Known as reel addiction, this habit is drawing people of all ages—especially teenagers and youth—into spending large parts of their day scrolling or making reels. What begins as simple entertainment often turns into an unhealthy routine.

Reel addiction means using short videos so much that people forget about their responsibilities. Students are among the most affected. Instead of studying, many spend hours watching reels, even during meals or late at night. Some sleep with their phones in hand after long hours of scrolling. This constant distraction reduces concentration, weakens academic performance, and wastes valuable study time. The problem does not stop at education. In personal life, young people are ignoring family, friends, and important duties.

Family conversations are shrinking as everyone spends more time on their screens. Many youths are missing opportunities to build skills, prepare for their careers, or focus on health. The impact on mental health is also serious. Overuse of reels brings stress, anxiety, loneliness, and low self-confidence. Some people feel restless without their phones, using reels as their only source of happiness. The result weakens productivity and reduces the ability to manage real-life challenges.

According to experts, easy internet access and the design of reels themselves are part of the problem. Short videos grab attention quickly, encouraging users to watch one after another without pause. The race for likes, followers, and instant fame adds to the pressure, especially among youth. Due to which students lose focus, families lose togetherness, and society loses responsible citizens. Even daily routines like eating, resting, or working are being disturbed by the urge to watch reels. However, solutions are possible. Setting clear time limits for phone use can reduce dependency. Engaging in creative activities like reading, writing, drawing, or music can provide healthier alternatives. Playing sports, helping at home, or joining community service can keep youths away from excessive screen time. Teachers and parents have an important role in raising awareness and guiding children towards balanced use of social media. Reels, when used wisely, can be informative and entertaining. To protect the future of youth, they must learn to control their screen habits, use their time productively, and focus on building a meaningful life.

(BA in Journalism, RR College.)