In the 21st century, almost everyone we know has a smartphone, and it’s impossible to go outside without seeing at least one person staring at their screen—whether they’re texting while waiting for the train or talking on FaceTime while standing in line for coffee. While it's easy to notice this happening all around us, it’s much harder to truly understand how much time we spend on our devices and when we need to cut back on our screen time.

"Researchers have studied the correlation between social media use and increased rates of loneliness and depression, as well as the heightened stress levels associated with being constantly connected to our phones. While smartphones offer many benefits in various aspects of life, excessive use can also negatively impact our health."

Consequences of Excessive Screen Time

Weight Gain
Increased screen time is linked to weight gain. Adults who watch just two hours of TV daily have a higher risk of weight gain, diabetes, and heart disease. This is likely due to multiple factors, including a sedentary lifestyle, lack of sleep, and poor eating habits while being engrossed in screens.

Vision Issues
Prolonged screen exposure can lead to computer vision syndrome, which includes symptoms such as eye strain, dry eyes, blurred vision, and headaches.

Chronic Neck and Back Pain
Poor posture while using screens can cause chronic pain in the neck, shoulders, and back.

Poor Sleep
Studies have linked excessive computer and smartphone use to sleep disturbances. The blue light emitted by digital devices suppresses melatonin, the hormone responsible for promoting sleep, making it harder to get restful sleep.

Impaired Cognitive Function
Brain imaging studies suggest that excessive screen time can reduce the brain’s ability to process information efficiently.

Increased Mortality Risk
Studies indicate that spending excessive time on screens—whether watching TV, using a computer, or browsing a tablet—can lower cardiovascular health and increase the risk of premature death.

Reducing screen time and maintaining a balanced lifestyle can help mitigate these negative effects, promoting better physical and mental well-being.