Discover the alarming brain problems caused by too much social media–neuroscientist reveals the optimal daily limit!
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In an age where our smartphones seem to be an extension of our hands and social media platforms are the new town squares, it's becoming increasingly difficult to disconnect.
But what is this digital dependency doing to our brains?
A neuroscientist has recently shed light on the potential cognitive dangers of excessive social media use and suggests a daily limit to safeguard our mental health.
Rachelle Summers, a medical expert with a significant following on social media, has become a go-to source for tips on improving mental wellness.
With over half a million followers, her advice reaches a broad audience seeking to ‘level up’ their mental health.
In a video that has captured the attention of over 167,000 viewers, Summers warns of the severe brain issues that can arise from scrolling through social media for too long.
The crux of her message is simple yet startling: to maintain cognitive function and mental well-being, one should limit social media usage to just 30 minutes per day.
This recommendation is based on a study that observed improvements in loneliness, depression, anxiety, and the fear of missing out (FOMO) when participants reduced their social media time.
For those who find such a drastic cutback daunting, Summers offers a practical approach.
She suggests starting with a 'checklist' to monitor and manage online habits.
The first step is establishing a baseline to understand your current social media consumption.
From there, keeping an eye on sleep patterns, attention span, and mood can provide insights into whether your digital habits are taking a toll on your health.
Summers points out that symptoms like poor sleep quality, brain fog, anxiety, depression, and physical discomfort such as eye strain or headaches can all be indicators of excessive social media use.
Additionally, it may be time to reassess your online activity if you notice your offline relationships suffering.
The comments section of Summers' video was flooded with reactions from viewers surprised to learn the recommended limit.
One user commented, ‘Wow, I hit almost all of those. I am going to check my usage.’ In contrast, other users shared sarcastic quips that highlight how high their social media usage has been.
Many shared their struggles with brain fog and the realisation that their social media habits might be contributing to their discomfort. Others vowed to check their usage and take steps to reduce it.
Source: TikTok / @rachelle_summers
It's essential to recognise that while social media can be an excellent tool for staying connected with friends and family, especially when mobility or distance is an issue, it's also vital to maintain a healthy balance.
Engaging in activities that stimulate the brain, such as reading, puzzles, or even walking in nature, can be excellent alternatives to screen time. Furthermore, fostering real-life connections and pursuing hobbies can enrich our lives in ways that scrolling through a feed cannot.
It's also worth noting that setting boundaries is even more crucial for many who may be more susceptible to the harmful effects of social media due to less familiarity with the technology.
Adverse effects on our mental well-being aren't the only risks associated with social media. In an article we’ve previously published we discuss how social media can be used as a tool for scammers.
You may be interested in reading about how some Aussies are taking their attempts to reduce screen time to a whole new level!
Do you have any strategies for managing social media use? Let us know in the comments below!
But what is this digital dependency doing to our brains?
A neuroscientist has recently shed light on the potential cognitive dangers of excessive social media use and suggests a daily limit to safeguard our mental health.
Rachelle Summers, a medical expert with a significant following on social media, has become a go-to source for tips on improving mental wellness.
With over half a million followers, her advice reaches a broad audience seeking to ‘level up’ their mental health.
In a video that has captured the attention of over 167,000 viewers, Summers warns of the severe brain issues that can arise from scrolling through social media for too long.
The crux of her message is simple yet startling: to maintain cognitive function and mental well-being, one should limit social media usage to just 30 minutes per day.
This recommendation is based on a study that observed improvements in loneliness, depression, anxiety, and the fear of missing out (FOMO) when participants reduced their social media time.
For those who find such a drastic cutback daunting, Summers offers a practical approach.
She suggests starting with a 'checklist' to monitor and manage online habits.
The first step is establishing a baseline to understand your current social media consumption.
From there, keeping an eye on sleep patterns, attention span, and mood can provide insights into whether your digital habits are taking a toll on your health.
Summers points out that symptoms like poor sleep quality, brain fog, anxiety, depression, and physical discomfort such as eye strain or headaches can all be indicators of excessive social media use.
Additionally, it may be time to reassess your online activity if you notice your offline relationships suffering.
The comments section of Summers' video was flooded with reactions from viewers surprised to learn the recommended limit.
One user commented, ‘Wow, I hit almost all of those. I am going to check my usage.’ In contrast, other users shared sarcastic quips that highlight how high their social media usage has been.
Many shared their struggles with brain fog and the realisation that their social media habits might be contributing to their discomfort. Others vowed to check their usage and take steps to reduce it.
Source: TikTok / @rachelle_summers
It's essential to recognise that while social media can be an excellent tool for staying connected with friends and family, especially when mobility or distance is an issue, it's also vital to maintain a healthy balance.
Engaging in activities that stimulate the brain, such as reading, puzzles, or even walking in nature, can be excellent alternatives to screen time. Furthermore, fostering real-life connections and pursuing hobbies can enrich our lives in ways that scrolling through a feed cannot.
It's also worth noting that setting boundaries is even more crucial for many who may be more susceptible to the harmful effects of social media due to less familiarity with the technology.
You may be interested in reading about how some Aussies are taking their attempts to reduce screen time to a whole new level!
Do you have any strategies for managing social media use? Let us know in the comments below!
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