Using Screens Before Sleep Might Elevate Insomnia Risk by 59%: Research
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Synopsis
A study reveals that using screens in bed can raise insomnia risk by 59%. It suggests that screen time displaces sleep rather than increases wakefulness, urging individuals to reduce screen usage before bed.
Key Takeaways
- Screen time in bed increases insomnia risk by 59%.
- Study involved 45,202 young adults aged 18-28.
- Screen usage reduces sleep duration by 24 minutes.
- Significant sleep issues found among students.
- Limiting screen time before bed is advisable.
New Delhi, March 31 (NationPress) Enjoy scrolling on your phone while lying in bed? Researchers have discovered that using a screen in bed can increase your likelihood of experiencing insomnia by 59 percent.
While sleep is vital for both mental and physical health, more individuals are becoming accustomed to using screens while in bed. A study conducted by scientists from the Norwegian Institute of Public Health revealed a correlation between screen usage and poor sleep.
Although social media is often linked to worse sleep patterns due to its interactive features and emotional engagement, a survey involving 45,202 young adults aged 18-28 in Norway indicated that the specific type of screen activity was not a significant factor.
"We uncovered no notable differences between social media and other screen activities, indicating that screen usage itself is the primary contributor to sleep disruption. This is likely due to time displacement, where screen activity postpones sleep by occupying time that would otherwise be used for rest," stated lead author Dr. Gunnhild Johnsen Hjetland from the Institute.
The findings highlighted that screen usage in bed could potentially shorten sleep duration by 24 minutes.
Alarmingly, sleep issues were found to be particularly prevalent among students.
This could have significant ramifications for mental health, academic performance, and overall well-being, according to Hjetland.
The research published in Frontiers in Psychiatry indicates that screens diminish sleep time because they replace rest, rather than because they heighten wakefulness: various activities are expected to influence wakefulness differently.
"If you experience sleep difficulties and believe that screen time may contribute, it's advisable to limit screen usage in bed, ideally ceasing at least 30-60 minutes prior to sleep," recommended Hjetland.
"If screen usage is necessary, consider turning off notifications to reduce interruptions during the night," Hjetland urged, while advocating for more studies to explore the connection between screen usage and sleep on a global scale.
A recent study from Pennsylvania State University in the US indicated that young adults not receiving adequate sleep may face a heightened risk of high blood pressure or hypertension, a common risk factor for cardiovascular diseases.
