What is a typical use of screens?

We have become somewhat reliant on our devices, and so using them has become quite typical. For example, young children are given screen time to watch educational shows and to play educational games; older kids and adolescents attend classes, complete homework assignments, work on collaborative projects, and play games. Most of us also use devices for keeping up to date with the news, shopping, reading, chatting with our friends and keeping up with the latest social media trends.

When should I pay special attention to the use of screens?

Almost all of us have already had someone concerned about excessive use of screens. But how much is problematic? We should take multiple factors into consideration when thinking about “screen time,” such as our age, the reasons we are using technology (e.g., completing an assignment versus gaming or using social media), and our individual needs.

Here are some signs that we may be developing a problem:

• Interference with everyday activities. When screen use interferes with our everyday activities, such as getting ready for school or completing homework.
• Loss of sleep. When screen use results in fewer hours of sleep, sleeping later into the day, or exhaustion during the day.
• Behavioral troubles. Getting into arguments if someone attempts to cut down our screen or technology time.
• Emotional troubles. Feeling sad, withdrawn, anxious, or nervous when offline, or feeling worried about being back online.
• Social troubles. When screen use interferes with socializing, such as looking at screens during dinner or other activities involving people.
• Loss of interest in other activities. When screen use results in feeling less interest in other hobbies or extracurricular activities, such as athletic, artistic, and social endeavors.
• Physical troubles. When screen use leads to somatic symptoms like headaches, back pain, muscle tension, nausea, or upset stomach. Also, when it leads to increased rates of obesity due to declines in physical activity and significant sedentary lifestyle.
• Not attending to basic needs. When screen use leads to spending more hours than appropriate without eating or or using the restroom.

What can I do if I struggle with excessive use of screens?

It can be really hard to change our screen use patterns, even when we notice that it is being harmful to us. So, there are a few things you may try:

If you have already tried some or most of these suggestions and the problems you are facing persist, it may be the moment to ask a trusted adult to seek out professional support.

What kind of professional support can I seek out for help?

It is not unusual for us to feel embarrassed, inadequate or guilty if we experience difficulties with the use of screens. But, if you think you are facing this difficulty, support and guidance are available now.

Pediatricians or family physicians can help to address initial concerns and refer to specialized professionals. Also, whenever possible, a consultation with a mental health professional may be helpful.

The public system provides services through the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) and Centers of Multidisciplinary Assessment, Counseling, and Support (KEDASY).

Where to find more information

Specific, detailed, and clinical information on excessive screen use can be found at [clinical short guide at the program website].

If you want to know more about the closest available services for educational and public health systems for children and adolescent assistance across the country, go to our Services Mapping webpage here.

You can also find more information by pointing your phone camera at the QR code below or by clicking here.