How Screen Time Affects Brain Health: In today’s life a person is rarely able to sit truly quietly. Earlier long journeys used to be spent looking out the window, while waiting in line people used to feel the things around them and before sleeping at night the mind automatically slowed down.
But now every free moment is filled with some screen or the other. Sometimes mobile notifications, sometimes short videos, sometimes podcasts, and sometimes continuous messages. In such a situation, the mind is not able to get real rest.
Is this affecting us?
Neurologists say that this continuous background stimulation is changing the way the human brain works. From the outside, a person may appear to be resting, but the brain remains constantly active. This is the reason why nowadays people feel mentally tired even without doing much physical effort.
Is our brain made to always be active?
Dr Prabhu, neurologist at Hosmat Hospitals, told TOI that the human brain was never designed to be constantly active like this. Earlier there used to be small moments throughout the day when the mind itself became calm. But now every empty space is filled with digital things. Dr. Prabhu says that smartphones, social media, constant notifications and the pressure of being connected all the time keep the human brain constantly active.
What is the effect of saying always active?
Experts say that the problem is that this fatigue is not felt immediately. People think that scrolling on mobile or watching videos late at night is relaxing, but in reality the brain keeps processing new information continuously. This is the reason why the nervous system always remains in a mild alert state. Gradually this habit can turn into mental fatigue, lack of focus and emotional burnout. Research by the National Institutes of Health has also revealed that excessive viewing of screens and being engaged in digital things till late night affects the quality of sleep, emotional balance and ability to concentrate. Continuous scrolling, especially late at night, keeps the brain in alert mode.
Why is proper sleep important for us?
Dr. Suresh Babu P, head of the Neurology Department of Arete Hospitals, explains that there is a special cleaning system inside the brain, which is called the glymphatic system. This system is most active during deep sleep and works to remove toxic metabolic substances that accumulate throughout the day. According to Dr. Suresh Babu P, if there is continuous lack of sleep or excessive screen use at night, the brain’s ability to function can be affected in the long run. He advised to get at least 6 to 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep and reduce screen time at night.
Disclaimer: This information is based on research studies and expert opinion. Do not consider this as a substitute for medical advice. Before adopting any new activity or exercise, please consult your doctor or relevant specialist.