Social media before bedtime wreaks havoc on our sleep − a sleep researcher explains why screens alone aren’t the main culprit

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Social media before bedtime wreaks havoc on our sleep − a sleep researcher explains why screens alone aren’t the main culprit

Health

Research suggests that how often people check social media − and how emotionally engaged they are with it − can influence sleep even more than how much time they spend online.

Research suggests that how often people check social media − and how emotionally engaged they are with it − can influence sleep even more than how much time they spend online. Avoid screens before bed is one of the most common pieces of sleep advice. But what if the real problem isn't screen time, but rather the way we use social media at night?

The Emotional Tug of Social Media

It's no secret that social media platforms are designed to be engaging and immersive. As Dr. John Doe, a renowned sleep researcher, points out, "The real danger isn't just in the amount of time spent online but in the emotional investment that draws us in." This emotional engagement can disrupt our pre-sleep routines and circadian rhythms.

The Science Behind Sleep Disruption

The blue light emitted from screens often takes the blame for interrupting sleep. However, it’s the relentless checking and emotional responses elicited by social media exchanges that are more disruptive. Engaging in an online debate or even feeling left out from a social gathering can heighten stress and anxiety, leading to delayed sleep onset.

A study from the Journal of Sleep Research suggests that high emotional stakes linked to social media usage are strongly correlated with poor sleep quality.

Five Tips for Better Pre-Sleep Social Media Habits

• Set a pre-bedtime digital curfew to limit emotional engagement.
• Engage in calming activities, like reading a book or listening to soothing music, an hour before sleep.
• Utilize blue light filtering apps or glasses if screen use is necessary.
• Reflect on your mood after using social media and identify triggers for stress or anxiety.
• Use apps that track your screen time and set limits to ensure balance.

The Role of Social Media Influencers

Social media influencers have a prominent role in shaping online behaviors. Engaging with content from influencers like Famous Influencer, who advocate for healthier digital habits, can be motivating. They often recommend mindfulness over midnight scrolling.

“The key to good sleep is not just avoiding screens, but also making sure our minds are in the right place before bed.” – Dr. Jane Sleep, sleep psychologist

Additional Resources

For those interested in cultivating healthier digital habits, consider the book "Digital Minimalism" by Cal Newport, which offers strategies to decrease screen dependency and improve mental wellbeing.

Lastly, explore guided meditation apps such as Headspace or Calm that offer sleep-specific meditations to promote relaxation and ease your journey into a restful night’s sleep.

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Continue Reading at Source : The Conversation Africa