Palakkad: At least 41 children in Kerala have died by suicide over the past four years due to issues linked with excessive use of mobile phones, social media, and the internet, according to the State Crime Records Bureau.

The report notes that between 2021 and 2025, digital addiction has emerged as a serious concern, pushing several children into severe psychological distress. In addition, 1,992 children have undergone treatment at de-addiction and rehabilitation centres across the state over the last two and a half years.

Of the six centres functioning in Kerala, the highest number of cases were reported from Kollam (480), followed by Kozhikode (325), Thrissur (304), Kochi (300), Thiruvananthapuram (299), and Kannur (284). School students constituted the most vulnerable group, with many affected by compulsive use of online games and social media.

Officials further warned of a disturbing trend where expensive digital devices are allegedly being misused by drug trafficking gangs to lure school and college students.

The findings have triggered calls from child rights activists, educators, and mental health professionals for urgent interventions, including stricter digital safety measures, awareness drives for parents and students, and integration of mental health counselling in schools.