Many people in today’s world are so obsessed with their gadgets, from computers to mobile phones, laptops and many other modern gadgets, that they hardly live without them.
Prolonged screen use can subtly alter brain function, mood, and cognition, with long-term effects on our overall well-being.
In this article, Tribune Online highlights five surprising ways that too much exposure to screen time affects our well-being:
1. Impaired cognitive and language development in children
Children exposed to prolonged screen time in Nigeria are experiencing delays in cognitive stimulation. Many children who simply passively watch television or media are missing out on nurturing, such as talking, asking questions, and imaginative play, which are vital for development.
Passive screen experiences, such as watching rather than interacting, contribute less to brain growth in language skills, problem solving, and creative thinking. Over time, this can translate into poorer school performance, lower literacy, and a weaker capacity for abstract thinking.
2. Mood, depression and cognitive tension
High screen use is also linked to mental health problems. Children and adolescents with high exposure to screens or social media are more likely to feel lonely, anxious or depressed. Digital comparison, cyberbullying, and feeling disconnected during real-life interactions are common factors.
3. Reduced physical activity and brain-body effects
Using screens often means sitting still. Investigation sample significant links between high screen time and high BMI, lower muscle strength, higher waist-to-hip ratio, and higher blood pressure.
Low cardiovascular fitness, poor circulation, and metabolic stress can reduce blood flow to brain regions, promoting fatigue, mood instability, and less efficient cognitive processing.
4. Cognitive impairment related to nighttime screen use
Using screens late at night can affect how your brain works.
Bright light from phones and televisions prevents the brain from releasing melatonin, the hormone that helps you sleep. Poor sleep prevents the brain from resting and organizing memories, which can lead to weaker focus, slower thinking and forgetfulness.
5. The outer layer of your brain is thinning
Too much screen time can physically change your brain. Studies show that in adults between 18 and 25 years old, spending many hours in front of screens is related to the thinning of the cerebral cortex, the outer layer of the brain that handles memory, concentration and problem solving.