Screens and mental healthVienaMed
Impact of screens on mental health: why human connection matters
The phone is the first thing that many people check in the morning and the last thing they look at before they go to bed. Work, school, entertainment and even social relations are moving more and more through the screens.
Technology gives us quick access to information and helps us keep in touch with people at a distance. At the same time, when using devices becomes excessive, and digital interactions begin to replace sleep, movement and real relationships, consequences on emotional balance can arise.
The World Health Organisation shows that the relationship between technology and mental health is complex and bidirectional: excessive use can increase certain difficulties, and people who are already experiencing emotional problems can spend more time online.
Screens aren't the problem per se.
Not every time you spend in front of a screen is harmful. It matters:
- how long we use the devices;
- what kind of content we’re after;
- the reason why we use them;
- what important activities are being replaced;
- how we feel after spending time online.
A video conversation with a close person does not produce the same experience as hours spent without purpose on social networks. Similarly, the use of learning or work technology must be differentiated from compulsive use, difficult to control.
An important signal occurs when online time begins to affect sleep, school or professional performance, physical activity and relationships with family or friends.
How can digital excess influence mental health
Constant exposure to notifications, information and social comparisons can keep the brain in a constant state of stimulation. Some people can become more irritable, more anxious or harder to concentrate.
In the case of adolescents, the World Health Organization has associated with the problematic use of social networks with less mental and social status. However, effects differ from person to person and depend on context, content and individual vulnerabilities.
Among the signs worth observing are:
- difficulty in interrupting your phone use;
- unrest or irritability in the absence of the device;
- late bed and insufficient sleep;
- loss of interest in ordinary activities;
- avoiding direct meetings and conversations;
- reduction of concentration capacity;
- sadness, anxiety or persistent isolation.
The presence of a single sign does not automatically indicate a disorder. It matters the duration, intensity and how changes affect everyday life.
Why human connection is essential
People need genuine relationships, a sense of belonging and an opportunity to speak openly with people they trust.
Social isolation and loneliness are not just unpleasant states. They can influence mental health, physical condition and quality of life. The World Health Organization estimates that about one in six people worldwide face loneliness.
Messages and reactions received online can create the impression of a permanent connection, but do not always replace:
- a face-to-face conversation;
- the undivided attention of a close person;
- contact with family and community;
- the support of a doctor or psychologist;
- feeling of safety provided by a stable relationship.
Mental health of children and adolescents
Children and adolescents are in an important period of emotional, social and cognitive development. Therefore, they need age-appropriate limits, routine, sufficient sleep, movement and real interactions.
Parents should follow not only the number of hours spent online, but also behavioural changes. A professional assessment is recommended when certain symptoms persist for weeks or months and affect the child’s life at home, at school or in relationships with friends.
The US National Institute of Mental Health underlines that early intervention can help children manage their symptoms and reduce the risk of more severe and long-term problems.
Signs requiring attention may include:
- the withdrawal from the preferred activities;
- important changes in sleep or appetite;
- decrease in school outcomes;
- frequent emotional outbursts;
- persistent anxiety or sadness;
- the constant refusal to interact with other persons;
- statements about lack of personal value or lack of hope.
Adults and pressure to be permanently connected
In the case of adults, the border between work and personal time has become increasingly difficult to keep. Messages, emails and notifications can continue long after the end of the program.
An unbalanced daily rhythm can contribute to fatigue, irritability and difficulty concentrating. Sometimes, time spent online also becomes a way of avoiding emotions, family problems or difficult working situations.
A few simple measures can help:
- establishing intervals without a phone;
- avoiding devices before bedtime;
- maintenance of tables without screens;
- the inclusion of physical activity in the programme;
- regular meetings with family and friends;
- stopping notifications that are not necessary.
These changes can support daily balance, but do not replace specialist assessment when symptoms are persistent or worsening.
The loneliness and mental health of older people
Older people can face loss of partner, reduction of mobility, retirement, chronic illness or removal of family members. All this can promote isolation.
The World Health Organisation considers the loneliness and social isolation as important risk factors for mental health problems at old age. Significant social activities and constant support can improve mental state, satisfaction with life and quality of life.
A video call may be useful, but it is important to complete it, where possible, through visits, direct conversations, joint activities and careful monitoring of emotional changes.
Can applications replace a psychologist?
Applications for relaxation, sleep monitoring or stress management can be useful tools. They can facilitate access to information and complement a therapeutic plan.
However, the efficiency of applications differs and the field is not regulated uniformly. The National Institute of Mental Health shows that technology can support traditional therapy, but there are still questions about the efficiency, data protection and exaggerated promises of applications.
An application may not always notice the nuances of behavior, medical history, family context or actual severity of symptoms. When problems persist, individual evaluation by a qualified professional is required.
When the help of a specialist is recommended
It is appropriate to talk to a doctor, psychologist or psychiatrist when:
- symptoms persist and do not improve;
- daily activities become difficult to achieve;
- the person is increasingly isolated;
- panic attacks or intense anxiety occur;
- sleep and food change significantly;
- there are sudden changes in behaviour;
- thoughts of self-harm, lack of hope or immediate danger.
In situations where there is an immediate risk to the affected person or others, local emergency services must be contacted without delay.
Psychotherapy comprises several forms of treatment through conversation, aimed at identifying and modifying the emotions, thoughts and behaviors that cause suffering.
Personalized medical support through VienaMed
Mental health must not be ignored or treated shamelessly. Requesting aid is a responsible step towards clarity, balance and recovery.
VienaMed can assist you in identifying the right specialists and organising a personalized medical evaluation in Vienna. Each situation needs to be analysed individually, taking into account the patient’s symptoms, medical history and needs.
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For information on the organisation of a consultation through VienaMed, consult Patient guide.