Depression can be caused by a variety of factors, from family history to stressful events and lifestyle habits. It’s psychotherapist Niro Feliciano who asks an unavoidable question when talking to a new client about the potential signs of their mental health problem.
Mental Health Tip of the Day: Consider Screen Time When Assessing Depression
“When a client would come to me and say, ‘I don’t feel motivated to do the things that I love to do, that I usually do to start a new habit,’ I would automatically start assessing them for depression,” Feliciano says. “And now the first thing I ask is, ‘Let’s talk about your screen time.'”
This is due to the high levels of dopamine, the “feel-good hormone,” that devices like smartphones provide, she says, which can make it easier to do other tasks, especially if they’re boring or unrewarding at first.
Why it matters
Research has shown that screen time can be an indicator of depression symptoms. It’s a particularly concerning phenomenon among preteens and teens, experts say.
Some studies have indicated that the link may be that more screen time leads to less physical activity (which has been linked to better mental health), poor sleep quality, and social challenges.
How to get started
If you are experiencing symptoms of depression, it is recommended that you see a mental health professional, such as a therapist or psychiatrist. (If you are in immediate crisis, the national 988 Suicide & Crisis hotline is available.)
For most people, depression can be treated with a combination of talk therapy, medications and lifestyle changes, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Are you specifically looking to reduce your screen time? Try Feliciano’s 30-day plan to improve your attention span, which involves a lot less time spent on your phone.
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