How Screen Time Affects Teen Mental Health , By: Madhurika Velayutha Perumal

 How Screen Time Affects Teen Mental Health

By: Madhurika Velayutha Perumal

Today, many teenagers spend more than half the day on their phones, tablets, or computers. While

these electronics are used for learning and communicating with others, an excessive amount of screen time

can significantly impact our mental health. Many teens are noticing changes in their sleep schedule and their

focus in school due to the amount of time they spend chronically online.

Many teenagers stay up late scrolling through social media or watching TV. The blue light from

these screens disrupts the brains ability to fall asleep. As a result, they experience drowsiness and fatigue,

which makes it harder for them to concentrate in school.

Screen time itself isn't the only thing that is part of the negative impacts on mental health. It’s also

the social media that teenagers are consuming every day. Social media often makes teenagers compare

themselves with others they see. Whether it’s another person’s lifestyle or pictures of them, it causes stress

and lowers the individual's self confidence.

However, screen time is not always bad. The key is to find a balance between day-to-day activities

and your devices. Setting time limits, finding a hobby, or engaging in in-person activities with friends can

help maintain a healthy relationship with yourself and technology.

Screen time is part of our modern life, but it is important to be conscious in making healthy

decisions with technology. By being aware of how much we spend online and setting healthier limits. Small

changes like reducing screen time before bed, spending time outdoors, and talking with friends in person can

help teens maintain better mental health. Being mindful about how we use technology allows us to enjoy its

benefits while protecting our wellbeing.