The current evidence shows that the excessive use of digital devices is associated with difficulties in emotional self-regulation, especially when it interferes with socialization and family interaction, unstructured group play, or sleep. This causes increased anxiety and irritability, which affects emotional and behavioral development. In addition, prolonged exposure to social media increases isolation and has an impact on self-esteem due to negative comparisons.

Eating disorders (EDs) are mental health conditions with a significant impact on physical health, especially in the case of disorders associated with malnutrition. Their complexity requires an interdisciplinary approach; in the vast majority of cases, pediatricians are the professionals in the best position to detect them, and early intervention is key to improve outcomes. Pediatricians also play a key role in the prevention of EDs through the promotion of a healthy relationship with food and body image, as well as in their detection and initial management, ensuring early intervention to stabilize the patient while coordinating the delivery of specialized care.

There is extensive evidence on the impact of excessive screen and social media use on physical health. Links with overweight, obesity, and cardiorespiratory fitness have been established. Poor posture hinders musculoskeletal development, and the interference of certain light spectra with circadian rhythms has been found to be associated with sleep disturbances. Finally, prolonged exposure contributes to visual fatigue and dry eye. Awareness of these effects can allow pediatricians to better counsel families on how to set appropriate limits and detect early signs of emotional distress or physical signs to find an adequate balance between technology and parenting.

It is estimated that 25% of children frequently complain of pain or other symptoms in the absence of compatible findings in the medical evaluation. Somatization disorders, hypochondria or health anxiety, and conversion disorders are conditions that can severely limit the lives of children, adolescents, and their families. Somatization is associated with symptoms of anxiety and depression over the lifespan. It commonly leads to the performance of unnecessary tests and significant health care costs, which could be avoided if the nature of these disorders was properly recognized. Myths about somatization are common, and all health care providers who care for children and adolescents should be familiar with them and know how to debunk them.

The use of psychotropic drugs in children is growing. The most widely used are psychostimulants for treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), atypical antipsychotics, such as risperidone, for treatment of severe behavioral disorders, and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) for treatment of anxiety and mood disorders. When used with caution and while monitoring treatment, they contribute to the symptomatic control of many behavioral and affective disorders and can enhance the effectiveness of other therapeutic modalities, such as psychotherapy.

We hope that this virtual special issue will contribute, combined with other educational activities, to improve the training of all pediatricians, young or experienced, whether they are particularly interested in this topic or just want to know how to “get through” these situations. We will continue to work on it.