Whether mobile-computer or TV, we are all surrounded by some kind of screen throughout the day. However, these habits are posing serious health challenges. Studies have shown increased screen time to be hazardous to both physical and mental health. Its side effects have been observed for people of all ages, from children to adults.
Screen time is the amount of time we spend in front of any kind of screen. The screen emits blue light that can damage everything from the eyes to the entire health.
In today's digital age, we are all surrounded by mobile computers. It can have a significant impact on health from an early age, being known as the leading factor for increasing eye problems. Increased screen time is also considered a risk factor for obesity, along with reduced light exposure, as well as decreased cognitive skills.
Since it is difficult for us to keep away from mobile computers in today's time, the question arises at what age should there be screen time?
The many disadvantages of increased screen time
Before knowing how much screen time can be considered okay for age, it is important to know how increased screen time affects health.
Studies show that increased screen time is harmful for children and adults alike for many reasons. It has been seen to have the greatest impact on mental health. There is a risk of health problems like depression, and anxiety due to increased screen time. These are also considered problems affecting sleep, which hurts both physical and mental health.
Increased screen time leads to decreased physical activity leading to the risk of weight gain and obesity which is considered a major factor in many serious chronic diseases such as heart disease, and diabetes.
What do the experts say about screen time?
Parents and teachers say health experts in response to growing concerns over screen time, can help manage children’s use of electronic devices. These are very important because the kind of side effects that screen time has can lead to the risk of many serious health problems at an early age.
According to a report experts from the Brazilian Society of Pediatrics said children under the age of two should be kept away from screens of any kind at all. Children’s mental development can be affected due to exposure to mobile or other screens at an early age.
Children under the age of two should not be addicted to mobile phones at all.
Affecting children's health
Health experts say ages two to five should have no more than two hours of screen time per day. As children grow older, they continue to be exposed to video games and more technology, this is also the time of their social development in which more screen time risks hurting it. Excessive screen use can interfere with schoolwork, social relationships, and physical health. 6 to 12 years of age should not exceed three screentime.
Screen Time for Adults
General guidelines say screen use time for adults should not exceed two hours per day. Should be limited. One should regularly spend more time in physical activities to prevent health side effects caused by screen time.
(PC: Freepik)
