Online Gaming Addiction Leaves Teenager Severely Disabled in Odisha

A teenager in Odisha’s Bhadrak district has been left severely disabled following an alleged suicide attempt linked to excessive online gaming, leaving his financially distressed family struggling to meet the cost of his treatment and rehabilitation. 

The incident, reported from Oldang village under Adia Gram Panchayat in Bant block, has once again brought the spotlight on growing concerns over excessive online gaming among children and adolescents.

According to family members, the boy was given a mobile phone in 2022 primarily to attend online classes. However, his use of the device gradually extended beyond education, and he allegedly became increasingly absorbed in online



games. 

Over time, his family noticed a marked change in his behaviour, they said. His involvement in online gaming reportedly intensified, eventually leading to a tragic turn.

The boy allegedly attempted to take his own life. Although he survived, the incident left him with severe physical disabilities. He is now unable to walk and faces difficulty in speaking, according to his family. 

The prolonged medical treatment has also pushed the family into severe financial distress. The boy’s parents said they had exhausted their savings on his treatment and were finding it increasingly difficult to arrange funds for his continued medical care and rehabilitation.