Billionaire American venture capitalist Chamath Palihapitiya claimed that cutting down on the screen time of his children, diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or ADHD, helped reverse the condition. “We had the kids tested for ADHD; they were not particularly doing great in school. The response by some of the folks in school was, oh! There are meds for that,” Palihapitiya had said in an earlier video doing rounds on social media.

However, rather than indulging in medication, Palihapitiya said he made sure his children get no screen time, and that practice drastically improved their social skills and grades in school. “We took away their I-pads and completely deprived them of all these apps and video games. I cannot describe to you the magnitude of turnaround in this kid,” he said. “Grades were incredible – where they were getting 60-70 per cent, now getting 90 per cent, totally engaged. An interesting, charming kid that had lost a little bit, and I think that there was a little bit of a daze,” Palihapitiya added.

ADHD is a chronic, debilitating neurodevelopmental disorder that affects brain development and activity. According to experts, the condition is characterized by a pattern of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that can interfere with a person's functioning or development. Symptoms start in childhood and often last into adulthood.

According to experts, various studies have examined the correlation between screen time and ADHD symptoms. Some research suggests that excessive screen time contributes to worsening inattention and hyperactivity in individuals with the mental health condition. “Digital devices often provide quick and easily accessible entertainment, which can potentially reduce an individual's attention span over time. Additionally, the highly stimulating nature of interactive screens - whether from video games, social media, or streaming services—can overstimulate a brain that may already struggle with self-regulation,” Dr. Pankaj Borade, Consultant Psychiatrist with Ruby Hall Clinic, told Times now.

There is some evidence suggesting that cutting down on screen time could offer benefits for individuals with ADHD. According to a study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry found that children who spent less time on screens had fewer problems related to hyperactivity and inattention. “Reducing screen time often leads to more opportunities for physical activities, social interactions, and sleep—all factors that can positively impact ADHD symptoms,” Dr. Borade added.

Dr. Borade says less screen time also promotes engagement in other stimulating activities like reading, playing outside, or engaging in hobbies, which can improve focus and decrease hyperactivity. “Parents have also reported that structured routines with limited screen time seem to help manage their children’s ADHD symptoms better,” he said.

Experts believe even though the reduction in screen time does have many benefits, it is not a one-size-fits-all solution. “ADHD is a complex disorder influenced by various factors including genetics, environment, and individual brain chemistry. Cutting down on screen time alone may not be sufficient for all individuals and should ideally be part of a comprehensive treatment plan that may include behavioral therapy and medication,” said Dr. Borade.

Moreover, the quality of screen time also matters. Educational content and structured digital activities may not have the same negative impact as passive or highly stimulating content. It's essential to distinguish between different types of screen interactions when making recommendations.

And so, while cutting down screen time may not "reverse" ADHD, it can potentially alleviate some symptoms and improve overall well-being. However, it is crucial to adopt a balanced and holistic approach that considers individual needs and incorporates other effective treatment strategies. Ongoing research is needed to better understand the relationship between screen time and ADHD, but current evidence supports that mindful management of screen time can be a beneficial component of an ADHD management plan.