Screens play a big role in your life. There are a lot of benefits to be able to connect quickly with others and to get information in seconds. In the past, the only access to information was through newspapers, libraries, and a couple of channels on TV. There was no texting, messaging, or emails, so people wrote letters or made phone calls to communicate with each other.
With the advancements in technology, you can use your phone or laptop to do your homework, socialize with your friends, find out the weather, shop, and see what is going on in the world without ever getting out of your chair. The possibilities are endless and keep growing.
With so many benefits, is there a downside to so much screen time?
- Have you ever looked up from your phone or computer and realized that several hours have gone by and you have not really accomplished anything?
- Do you sometimes worry that you are becoming lazy--skipping exercise or not getting fresh air because you got lost in online activities?
- Have you ever lost sleep because you stayed up until all hours of the night due to screen time?
- Has time on your phone or computer lessened your ability to connect or communicate with someone who is sitting in the same room with you?
- After scrolling through social media, do you find yourself feeling bad about yourself, your life, or becoming slightly jealous of others?
- Have you ever been hurt by comments someone makes in a text or a post?
- Have you been tempted to post or send things to people that could put you at risk?
- Have you found yourself making impulsive purchases online that you later regret because you couldn't really afford it?
The key with screen time is to be mindful of what you are doing (or not doing), who you are connecting with and what you are saying, and how it all makes you feel. Unplug and disconnect, especially if you start to find that being online is impacting your mood or self-esteem. It doesn't have to be a permanent break, just walk away for an hour and do something else—see how you feel!
