Brain Health: Mobile phone addiction is damaging the brain. Doctors reveal the terrifying truth about sleep and fatigue.

Cognitive Fatigue: People think that scrolling on their mobile or watching videos till late at night is a relaxing activity, but in reality, the brain is constantly processing new information.

The impact of screen time on brain health

How Screen Time Affects Brain Health: In today's world, people rarely get to truly sit still. Long commutes used to be spent staring out the window, waiting in line allowed people to notice their surroundings, and the mind would naturally slow down before bed. But now, every spare moment is filled with screens of one kind or another: mobile notifications, short videos, podcasts, and endless messages. Consequently, the brain is unable to truly rest.

Is this affecting us?

Neurologists say that this constant background stimulation is changing the way the human brain works. While a person may appear to be resting, the brain remains constantly active. This is why people nowadays feel mentally exhausted even without much physical exertion.

Is our brain made to be always active?

Dr. Prabhu, a neurologist at Hosmat Hospitals, told TOI that the human brain was never designed to be constantly active like this. Earlier, there were small moments throughout the day when the mind could calm down. But now every empty space is filled with digital objects. Dr. Prabhu says that smartphones, social media, constant notifications, and the pressure to stay connected all the time keep the human brain constantly active.

What is the effect of always saying active?

Experts say the problem is that this fatigue isn't felt immediately. People often think scrolling through their mobile phones or watching videos late into the night is a relaxing activity, but in reality, the brain is constantly processing new information. This is why the nervous system remains in a mild state of alert. Gradually, this habit can lead to mental fatigue, lack of focus, and emotional burnout. Research by the National Institutes of Health has also shown that excessive screen time and staying engaged in digital activities late into the night impact sleep quality, emotional balance, and concentration. In particular, constant scrolling late into the night keeps the brain in alert mode.

Why is proper sleep important for us?

Dr. Suresh Babu P., head of the neurology department at Arete Hospitals, explains that the brain has a specialized cleaning system called the glymphatic system. This system is most active during deep sleep and works to remove toxic metabolic substances accumulated throughout the day. According to Dr. Suresh Babu P., chronic sleep deprivation or excessive screen time at night can impact brain function in the long term. He recommends getting at least 6 to 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep and reducing screen time at night.