The Relationship Between Excessive Screen Time, Self‐Harm, and Suicidal Behavior in Adolescents During the COVID‐19 Pandemic: An Integrative Literature Review.

INTRODUCTION: Adolescents are being increasingly exposed to digital media, especially in the aftermath of the COVID‐19 pandemic. This reality raises concerns over the effects of this exposure, in addition to an increase in suicidal behavior and self‐harm. Aim/Question: This study aims to analyze the relationship between excessive screen time, self‐harm, and suicidal behavior in adolescents during the COVID‐19 pandemic. METHODS: This is an integrative literature review. The research question was structured using the PICOT strategy (P—adolescents; I—intensive screen and internet time; O—suicidal behavior and self‐harm; and T—pandemic timeframe). The databases included were: Embase, LILACS, PubMed, Scopus, Cinahl, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. Initially, 1645 studies were found; after reviewing their titles and abstracts, 18 studies met the eligibility criteria. FINDINGS: The results revealed concerning associations between prolonged exposure and behaviors such as self‐harm and suicidal behavior. Implications for Practice: These findings can assist nurses in identifying young individuals at risk due to inappropriate technology use, enabling the development of tailored interventions, the implementation of educational programs for healthy digital habits, and the promotion of mental well‐being. Recommendation: In light of the above, measures to mitigate this problem and the risks stemming from prolonged exposure are needed, considering that the adverse effects go beyond the pandemic context. Summary: What is known on the subject? Adolescence is a period of intense emotions and vulnerability, making it challenging for adolescents to cope with the increasing demands of digital media.In this context, the COVID‐19 pandemic has led to drastic changes in young people's routines, resulting in a significant increase in their screen and internet time. This scenario, marked by social isolation and adaptation to new forms of interaction, raises concerns about the impact of intensive technology use on the mental health of this population.Recent studies indicate a possible correlation between excessive screen time and an increase in suicidal and self‐harm behaviors among young people. However, there is a gap in the literature regarding this correlation during the COVID‐19 pandemic. What the paper adds to existing knowledge? This study conducted an integrative review of the relationship between excessive screen time, self‐harm, and suicidal behavior in adolescents during the COVID‐19 pandemic.The results revealed concerning associations between prolonged screen exposure and behaviors such as self‐harm and suicidal tendencies.What are the implications for practice? These findings can help nurses identify young individuals at risk due to inappropriate technology use, enabling the development of tailored interventions.Nurses can implement educational programs for healthy digital habits (Oh et al. 2022), emphasizing awareness of the potential risks of excessive screen time and promoting strategies to balance digital engagement with other activities, such as physical, social, and emotional strengthening activities.The results highlight the importance of continuous monitoring of adolescents' mental health and the implementation of measures designed to promote psychological well‐being. To achieve this, it is essential to address their emotional and affective needs through strategies that strengthen socio‐emotional resources, promote resilience, encourage interpersonal bonding, and assist in stress management. These measures enable the creation of an effective support network for adolescents. By integrating these aspects, nurses perform a key role in adopting a holistic approach to adolescent mental health and well‐being.