The National Institute of Public Health and the County Directorates of Public Health are launching the national information, education and awareness campaign dedicated to promoting mental health, during January-February 2026, an essential initiative to address the escalation of mental health challenges generated by the problematic use of the digital environment. The campaign aims to:

• Raising public awareness and a direct call to action against addiction to digital technologies, given its increased impact on mental health and well-being, with children and young people being the most affected.

• Promoting preventive behaviors for mental health and encouraging the population to invest in offline alternatives to screen-based entertainment.

International and national data indicate an alarming increase in depression, anxiety and suicide risk among young people, closely linked to excessive screen time. Studies in Romania confirm the decline in well-being and the reduction of direct communication. It also recommends the need for a balanced use of technology, collaboration between family, school and health services and the implementation of measures such as digital education, platform regulation and investment in offline alternatives, to protect mental well-being.