Social media addiction strains marriages:Two out of five disputes in Bhopal linked to mobiles; 1,250 cases in 2024–26

Rashmi was just 23 when she married 29-year-old Abhinav, who was six years older than her. They first met during an office presentation in the early days of their jobs. A conversation over coffee gradually turned into lunch dates and late-night chats. Within two years, friendship turned into love and then marriage. In the beginning, they would talk for hours. Rashmi shared her dreams and travel plans, while Abhinav spoke about the future. A few months into the marriage, their routine began to change. Instead of having tea together after work, both would remain absorbed in their phones. Meals went cold at the dining table, but the scrolling of reels did not stop. Gradually, conversations reduced and arguments over small issues increased. Phrases like “You don’t listen” and “You don’t understand” became common. Matters escalated to the point where divorce was discussed. 3-4 hours of screen time is the real reason for distance During counselling, it emerged that daily screen time of three to four hours was the main reason behind the growing distance. With rules to limit social media use to fixed hours and increase communication, warmth slowly returned to the relationship and the marriage was saved. This story is not limited to Rashmi and Abhinav. According to counsellors, two out of every five couples seeking help report disputes linked directly to mobile phone usage. Watching and making reels has become part of modern lifestyle, but the growing addiction is now affecting families. Since the Covid period, the problem has steadily increased. Communication between spouses is declining, while screen time continues to rise. In the OPDs of government hospitals, social media — especially reels — has emerged as a major factor behind marital disputes and stress. Between 2024 and 2026, as many as 1,250 such cases were recorded, raising concern. Most disputes between couples are linked to social media Psychiatrists say that out of five marital dispute cases, two are directly connected to social media use. A common reason for arguments is that instead of giving time to each other, partners prioritise spending hours watching or creating reels. In 2024–25 and 2025–26, government hospitals recorded a total of 1,250 cases of marital discord. A significant number involved couples where social media had increased emotional distance. Household work and communication between couples affected According to Dr Satyakant Trivedi, in many cases either the husband or the wife becomes so engrossed in making and watching reels that essential household work and family responsibilities suffer. Both partners often remain busy on their phones, leaving little time for children. Earlier mobile use was limited, now part of daily routine Clinical psychologist Dr Rahul Sharma said such cases have steadily risen over the past five years. Earlier, mobile use was limited, but it has now become a central part of daily routine. On average, urban couples spend three to five hours a day on their phones, with reels and short videos accounting for the largest share. Experts also point out that comparison on social media and the desire for likes and comments add to stress. At times, one partner begins to feel insecure about the other’s online activity. Mobile Addiction and Psychological Effects According to specialists, mobile addiction leads to distraction, irritability, lack of sleep and emotional detachment. When a person spends more time in the virtual world, participation in real-life relationships reduces. This creates a feeling of neglect in the partner, which gradually turns into conflict. Constant comparison with others’ seemingly perfect lives on social media also increases dissatisfaction and insecurity. The issue has been highlighted at Bhopal’s Gandhi Medical College, where doctors say mobile addiction is emerging as a behavioural concern. Getting help through counseling process During counselling, spouses are first spoken to separately to understand the root of the problem. In joint sessions, lack of communication, misunderstandings and screen-time habits are discussed. Improvement is generally seen within four to six sessions. In serious cases, counselling may continue for three to four months. Behaviour therapy and time-management techniques are also introduced when required. 5 Ways to Save Relationships