Screen Addiction: The New Age Epidemic Sweeping Through Society

In today’s society, screens have become an integral part of our lives.

From the moment we wake up, we check our phones for notifications, scroll through social media, watch videos on YouTube, and work on our laptops or computers. But what happens when our screen usage goes from a helpful tool to an addiction?

Screen addiction is a relatively new phenomenon, but it has quickly become a significant problem in society. It is defined as the excessive use of technology, particularly screens, that leads to negative consequenc- es in one’s life. The negative effects can include disrupted sleep patterns, impaired social skills, decreased physical activity, and even addiction.

The recent pandemic has undoubtedly accelerated the issue of screen addiction, as more people work and learn from home. With remote work and online classes, people are spending even more time in front of screens than ever before. The constant barrage of information and stimulation can be overwhelming, leading to a vicious cycle of addiction.

According to a study conducted by the American Psychological Association, the average American spends more than six hours a day in front of screens. This excessive use of technology can have severe consequences on one’s mental and physical health. Researchers have found that screen addiction is linked to depression, anxiety, and poor sleep quality. It can also lead to weight gain and eye strain. The problem of screen addiction is not just limited to adults;