Study shows too much TV causes depression

LONGVIEW - Robbye Humphrey has three kids and regulating how much TV they watch and what they watch is a necessity.

She said, "With cable and kids being able to access channels on their own, its very important."

A General Psychiatry Study shows for every hour of TV a teenager watches, they have a greater chance of having depression at a young age.

Psychiatrists say it takes away from social time and participating in sports and other activities.

Doctors also say the content in TV shows and video games can also lead to depression.

Doctor James Harold is a Psychiatrist in Longview and he said, "The subject matter on some popular video games for teens, especially more violent ones could probably affect their outlook on life."

Doctor Harold says parents need to talk to their teens about the things they are watching.

He said, "Talk with them and talk about the nature of the game, the amount of violence, subject matter and how that might affect them."

The study shows those who watch and play violent video games are more likely to be aggressive.

Too much TV can also cause obesity, which can later link to depression.

Humphrey said, "Thats a lot of the problem with kids now weight wise, injury wise because their not out being physical and theres more to do inside than going outside to find stuff to do."

Doctors say there should be a balance in the amount of time kids watch TV and socialize.