When a Child Uses Late-Night Scrolling to Cope With Loneliness 

Parenting Perspective 

If your child’s primary way of coping with loneliness is scrolling on their phone late at night, they are using it as an emotional plaster. While it may offer a fleeting distraction from their feelings, this habit often deepens the problem, leading to exhaustion and a greater sense of disconnection. The most effective approach for parents is to address both the underlying loneliness and the scrolling habit with compassion. 

Start With Understanding, Not Blame 

Shaming phrases like ‘You are just addicted to your phone’ will shut down communication. Instead, approach them as an ally: ‘I can see that scrolling at night might feel less lonely, but I am worried it is making you tired for school. Can we think of some other things that might help?’. This positions you as a supportive partner, not an accuser. 

Create Alternative Coping Tools 

A habit is best replaced, not just removed. Work together to create a new, calming bedtime routine. This could include reading a book, journaling, listening to soothing Quran recitation, or simply spending a few quiet minutes chatting together. The goal is to fill the space left by the phone with something genuinely comforting. 

Address the Loneliness Directly 

Late-night loneliness is often a symptom of disconnection during the day. Gently explore the root of their feelings. Are they missing friends? Do they feel unheard at home? Increasing meaningful connection during waking hours through shared activities and conversations is the most powerful way to reduce their need for digital comfort at night. 

Set Loving Boundaries 

Establish clear and loving boundaries around night-time phone use. This could mean having a central charging station outside the bedrooms or agreeing on a ‘digital curfew’. When you implement these rules, frame them as an act of care: ‘We are doing this as a family to make sure we all get the rest we need to be our best’. This makes the boundary a tool for wellbeing, not a punishment. 

Through this compassionate and structured approach, you can help your child learn that while scrolling offers a hollow, temporary comfort, the true antidote to loneliness is found in real connection and restful, balanced routines. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam reframes loneliness not as an emptiness to be filled with distraction, but as a precious opportunity for intimacy with Allah. The Quran beautifully describes the quiet of the night as a special time designated for sincere reflection and remembrance. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Muzzammil (73), Verse 6: 

‘Indeed, the hours of the night are more effective for concurrence of heart and tongue, and more suitable for words…’ 

This verse highlights the unique power of the night for spiritual connection. It is a time when the heart and mind are most receptive to finding peace through sincere conversation with our Creator. 

It is recorded in Mishkaat Al Masaabih, Hadith 1236, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The most excellent prayer after the obligatory prayers is the prayer in the depths of the night.’ 

This prophetic guidance teaches us that the night holds the potential for the most profound acts of worship. Turning to prayer in the quiet hours offers a level of healing and serenity that no worldly distraction can provide. 

By guiding your child towards these healthier habits and reminding them of the spiritual potential of the night, you help them replace a restless habit with a source of genuine peace. They can learn that feelings of loneliness need not be a void to be filled, but an invitation to connect more deeply with Allah, with family, and with their own inner self.