College student dies by suicide after argument over cellphone use

A tragic incident in Shivamogga has drawn attention to the growing concerns surrounding excessive cellphone use among young people. A 19-year-old first-year BCom student took his own life on Tuesday after a heated argument with his mother over his cellphone habits.

According to the police, the student was found hanging in his room. The family confirmed that the young man had developed a dependency on his cellphone, often staying up late at night to play games or watch videos, which led to frequent disputes with his parents. The incident has shocked the local community and raised urgent questions about the impact of smartphone addiction on mental health.

The police have filed a case of unnatural death and are actively investigating the circumstances leading up to the tragedy. Authorities are speaking with family members and friends of the student to gather more information about his mental state and the events that transpired before the incident.

This heartbreaking event has underscored the need for greater awareness of the potential risks posed by excessive cellphone usage, particularly for students and young adults. Experts have long warned that excessive screen time can lead to isolation, sleep deprivation, and heightened anxiety, all of which can negatively affect mental health. As social media and digital entertainment dominate the lives of young people, parents and guardians are being urged to monitor digital habits and maintain open lines of communication with their children.

In response to the tragedy, the local police have announced plans to offer counseling sessions for the family to help them cope with the emotional aftermath. This incident also highlights the importance of proactive mental health support, both at the family level and within educational institutions.

The incident serves as a stark reminder to parents about the importance of fostering a healthy relationship with technology and ensuring that children are equipped with the coping mechanisms needed to navigate digital challenges. Mental health professionals emphasize the importance of discussing screen time limits, setting healthy boundaries, and recognizing the signs of digital addiction early on.