The Effects of Screen Time: Stress, FOMO, and Mental Fatigue
Discover how being always connected affects our well-being and learn practical steps to find balance in a hyperconnected world.
Last night, as I was getting ready for bed, I decided to check my phone one last time. What was meant to be a quick glance turned into an hour of scrolling through social media feeds, news updates, and notifications. Before I knew it, it was past midnight, and I felt more awake and anxious than I had all day. My mind was buzzing, but I was exhausted. It made me wonder: How did I get here? Why is it so hard to disconnect?
Have you ever found yourself losing track of time because you were glued to a screen? Maybe you've felt the urge to check your phone during a conversation or found it hard to focus without background distractions. Our digital devices keep us connected around the clock, but at what cost?
"Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you." — Anne Lamott
The Reality of Digital Overload
Our devices have become an integral part of our daily lives. We check them first thing in the morning and last thing at night. But what's this doing to our mental health?
Excessive screen time can increase stress and anxiety levels. According to a study by the American Psychological Association, constantly checking our devices is linked to higher stress levels. The endless flow of information and the pressure to always be available can be overwhelming. The Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) keeps us tied to our smartphones, even when they add to our stress and anxiety.