In a world dominated by electronics, the use of cellphones has become concerning. Almost everyone, especially young adults, has and uses their cellphones way too much. Over 7 billion people have cellphones, according to www.demandsage.com and the number continues to climb. To get a clear view, consumers should know the pros and cons of your phone for your mental health.
Cell phones offer many benefits, Said Jordyn Ferguson, a psychology student at WVU,”They provide instant access to information. Plus, you can connect with anyone with just a touch. They include entertainment choices that aid in relaxation and cut down on stress. Phones can help with financial management, navigation, and quick access to emergency responders.” Phones offer many benefits, but they also come with drawbacks. They can especially harm your mental health.
Guy Meneely, a 10th grade student, said, “I do spend too much time on my phone. Society and social media make it seem normal for us to stay glued to our screens.” Too much time on screens contributes to higher levels of anxiety and depression, especially in young adults. Many young adults use their phones to relax. However, too much phone time can raise anxiety and lead to addiction. The always-on connectivity can disrupt sleep patterns due to blue light emission. Blue light cuts melatonin. Melatonin is important for our sleep-wake cycle. As a result, falling asleep can become difficult. Screen time at night keeps the brain awake. This stops it from relaxing and leads to late-night thoughts.
Cellphones cause issues in schools, says Mr. Tom Taylor, a health teacher at Weir High School. “Constant phone use, especially on sites that use short videos, has drastically and negatively affected students’ attention spans. Most students today cannot pay attention for more than 10 or 15 minutes.” Without a good distraction, many students put off their work. They often miss deadlines. Leading to decreased motivation and poor academic performance.
There are many ways to reduce phone use. Setting boundaries is key. Some solutions can include setting a screen limit that disables the phone after being on it too long.
Ferguson offers another idea. She says, “Taking breaks from social media and creating a positive feed can help build a healthy relationship with these platforms.” While it is sometimes good to use social media, it’s also important to engage in other activities. Hobbies, sports, taking with friends and family, and reading are great options.
