What Healthcare Professionals Think of Screen Time

In an increasingly digital world, it’s no surprise that the consumption of digital media content has gone up significantly, and that was before COVID-19 forced many employees and students to work from home. Following these extensive changes to our normal way of life, the rise in digital media usage has skyrocketed. So, what do healthcare professionals have to say about the increase in screen time? 

Dr. Drew Schwartz says that too much screen time commonly leads to headaches brought on by eye strain, screen positioning, or simply not taking consistent breaks [1]. Most experts warn that the eyes, as well as the body, need frequent breaks from sitting in front of a computer screen. Take a brief recess every 30 minutes or so to keep your body refreshed. Drink plenty of water to help prevent headaches. To avoid eye strain, follow the 20-20-20 rule: give your eyes a rest every 20 minutes by staring at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Aside from following these rules, also be sure to make time for sunshine and exercise [2].  

Healthcare experts all agree that too much screen time can be damaging to the eyes, body, and mind. Never overextend yourself too much. The human body is a fine-tuned machine that needs routine maintenance.  

Sources: 

[1]https://www.eyepromise.com/blog/consumer/what-healthcare-professionals-think-of-screen-time/ 

[2]https://www.aisd.net/district-news/protect-yourself-from-the-dangers-of-too-much-screen-time/