The effects of screen time are a common topic of discussion. However, these conversations often focus on how screen time affects children’s health and well-being. But children are not the only age group that needs to consider how much time they spend on their devices.

Many professionals spend hours at their computers, and they might also spend much of their free time watching shows or scrolling through social media and online news stories. 

 There are many adverse effects of excessive screen time, even for adults. However, the exact point at which device use becomes harmful to adults’ health isn’t clearly defined. Some health experts say that limiting social media use to 30 minutes a day results in a “significant improvement in well-being.” If that isn’t enough to persuade adults to put down their devices, maybe exploring the harmful side effects of screens might help.
 

  • Depression: A 2017 study published in the journal Preventive Medicine Reports found a strong link between television watching and computer use with moderate to severe depression. Several studies also show a positive connection between screen time and depression in adolescents. 
  • Eye strain: Looking at screens can harm eye health. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends the 20-20-20 rule for adults working on a computer. This rule states that people should look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes.
  • Neck and back pain: Sitting at a desk for long periods or looking down at a phone can harm the body. This puts strain on the neck, shoulders, and back. In fact, many healthcare providers call this condition “tech neck.” Pain may develop, and the risk of serious musculoskeletal problems can increase if these positions are held for too long, according to Reid Health.
  • Cognitive changes: A 2020 study in Science Direct found that adults diagnosed with smartphone addiction had issues with the part of their brains responsible for transmitting messages. These adults also demonstrated decreased cognitive performance. Additionally, Stanford Lifestyle Medicine reports that adults who watched television for five hours or more per day face a higher risk of developing brain-related diseases like dementia, stroke, or Parkinson’s.
  • Reduced physical activity: People who spend excessive time on screens may be less inclined to engage in physical activities like walking, gardening, playing sports, or pursuing active hobbies. A sedentary lifestyle is associated with various health risks, including a higher likelihood of obesity and related health problems.
  • Impact on sleep: The JAMA Network reports that, in a cross-sectional analysis of 122,058 participants in the American Cancer Society Cancer Prevention Study-3, screen use was linked to shorter sleep duration and lower self-reported sleep quality. Using electronic screens before bed can disrupt circadian rhythms, leading to poorer sleep.

Screen time isn’t just a worry for kids. Adults need to manage their screen use to avoid different negative effects from devices.