Can too much screen time harm you?

Question 1

How does excessive screen time lead to trouble sleep?

Answer 1

Excessive screen time could disrupt the amount and quality of sleep you’re getting.

You may stay up later because you’re so involved with what’s happening on your device.

The light from screens can also reduce the amount of melatonin your body produces. This chemical helps you fall and stay asleep.

Lights reduce melatonin production, keeping you awake.

Question 2

How does screen time effect your emotional health?

Answer 2

There is a link between higher levels of screen time and an increase in the symptoms of depression.

Kids who engage in excessive screen time experience changed in their mood and behaviour.

They neglect responsibilities, turn to screens to deal with stress, and feel anxious when cut off from their devices.

Question 3

How does screen time effect your brain?

Answer 3

Too many hours on your phone causes physical changes to your brain.

The cortex is the outer layer of your brain and it processes information. It goes critical changes during adolescence. Screen time can effect it’s growth.

In a study called adolescent brain cognitive development, scientists discovered that some kids who use screens more than 7 hours a day had a thinner cortex.

Question 4

Tips to reduce screen time?

Answer 4

1) Use an app to track your screen time and set a limit for it.

2) Turn off all screens 30-60 mins before you go to sleep.

3)Schedule time to do things with your screens turned off

4) Exercise

5) Keep a journal of how screen time makes you feel.