Internet Addiction. Yep, whether you want to admit it or not, it is in fact real. It has a cost too.
New science shows that the more you use the internet, the more health problems you will suffer from, including mental health, physical health, and thinking. Balanced screen time is the key to alleviating screen brain.
Internet use has increased 1000%.
I wish I was kidding, but I am not. Adolescents state that they use the internet every day and have no plans of giving it up. We know that watch time is increasing exponentially and that mental and physical health are suffering because of it.
Internet addiction increases anxiety and depression.
This study showed that young adults who used the internet more were at greater risk for mental and physical health challenges such as:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- ADHD Symptoms
- Insomnia and Sleep Problems
- Pain
- Sedentary Lifestyle
Young adults with psychiatric problems showed significantly more problems with addictive internet use.
Limiting screen time
Limiting screen time can be key to improving mental health. Whether you’re at work or relaxing at home, put emphasis on taking frequent breaks from staring at a screen. Make it a goal to get up and go for a quick walk, get up and stretch, or just take a few minutes to practice meditation.
Eventually, begin substituting at-home screen time with other hobbies such as reading, drawing, playing an instrument etc. You’ll be able to feel a difference in no time.
