05/04/2026
Mental Health Monday with two of our PAs, Brandi and Kate! 💚
Excessive screen time can negatively affect the mental health of our youth and teenage populations in several ways! 📲
1. Increase in anxiety and depression- inadequacies and prolonged anxiety due to constant competition and comparison with peers (think teenagers with cell phones)!
2. Sleep disturbances- the blue light emitted by screens can actually interfere with the production of melatonin, therefore leading to poor sleep quality or insomnia, the inability to fall and stay asleep!
3. Reduced face to face interaction and communication- leads to isolation and loneliness, you’re missing out on that real world connection!
4. Cyber bullying- anyone can hide behind a screen anonymously, giving them the ability to bully which can severely impact self esteem and mental well being.
5. Attention and focus issues- excessive Screen Time, especially in the format of video gaming and extreme social media can affect attention span and cognitive development, making it difficult to focus on tasks.
But not all screen time is bad! Some benefits include educational opportunities, enhancing computer skills, social interaction, boosting creativity, and access to a lot of mental health support (think virtual counseling)! It’s important for parents and guardians to help kids and teenagers find the right balance!
Here at CHC our providers are ready and willing to help guide parents and guardians to take the next step in limiting screen time! 🙌🏼
