UAE's Longest Film 'Don't Look Down' Sheds Light on Smartphone Addiction in Youth

A Groundbreaking Film on a Growing Concern

In a bold move to address a pressing societal issue, the UAE has unveiled its longest film yet: Don't Look Down, a nine-hour cinematic experience produced by MullenLowe MENA in collaboration with Fixby, an organization committed to raising awareness about excessive smartphone use among children.

Highlighting the Crisis of Smartphone Use

Don't Look Down showcases a culture where children, pre-teens, and teens are increasingly tethered to their smartphones, spending an astonishing average of nine hours and eighteen minutes each day on their devices. The film dives deep into the consequences of such habits, drawing attention to various mental health issues linked to this addiction, including aggression, ADHD, depression, and feelings of isolation.

Daniel Herbert, Managing Director of Fixby, emphasizes the urgency of addressing this issue. He states, “Our mission is simple: to help families and schools create environments where children can thrive without the constant pull of their devices.” The film serves as a wake-up call, aiming to encourage parents, educators, and the broader community to take action against the pervasive influence of smartphones.

The Alarming Statistics

Supporting the film's message, recent data from TikTok reveals that a staggering 95% of smartphone users under the age of 17 engage with the platform, often leading them to stay up late and neglect real-life interactions. A survey conducted by Dr. Alison Burrows, a noted expert in screen time, found that approximately 65% of parents believe their children spend too much time glued to screens.

A Call for Action

Dr. Burrows warns of the detrimental effects that excessive smartphone use can have on critical aspects of children's lives. “Constant exposure to screens weakens emotional connections, disrupts sleep, and impacts focus and academic performance,” she explains. The film emphasizes the need for a collective effort in fostering healthier technology habits among children.

Fixby advocates for limiting social media access until the age of 16 and suggests that schools should not allow mobile phone usage in classrooms prior to this age. Instead, they propose providing school resources such as tablets with dedicated educational apps to promote meaningful digital literacy.

The film is not just a source of information; it aims to spark actionable change. Parents, educators, and communities are encouraged to support initiatives like Fixby’s lockable phone pouches that aid in establishing healthy digital boundaries.

Conclusion

The thought-provoking message of Don't Look Down is clear: in a world where digital devices dominate, it is essential to prioritize the well-being of our youth. The film has become a platform for dialogue, urging families to reconsider their technology habits and work towards creating healthier environments for children. To pledge your support or learn more about the initiative, visit endthescroll.com. The movement towards healthier tech use starts now.