1. The Devices Stress Our Brains
One of the reasons is that the devices are unnaturally stimulating to our nervous system (i.e., our brains and bodies). The unnatural colors and rapid movement common of recreational screen devices overwhelm our sensory systems creating a mild stress response. This activation of the bodies stress response system (i.e., autonomic nervous system), including a cascade of chemical and hormonal changes (i.e., hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis), pushes us into a state of defense (i.e., fight or flight).
2. High Levels of Stress Hormones, Over Time, Wreak Havoc
Where this becomes particularly problematic is when one’s nervous system experiences a chronic state of stress (i.e., continual elevated levels of stress over a prolonged period). When our body experiences even mildly elevated levels of stress over time, the cortisol (i.e., stress hormone) levels in our body remain elevated and can wreak havoc on our physical and mental health.
Cortisol serves an important role and when activated at the right times, in the right amounts, it supports our health and wellbeing. In excessive amounts, or over sustained periods of time, however, it contributes to physical, psychological, and behavioral consequences.
Over time, high cortisol levels make it hard for us to return to a regulated state. This process may contribute to a wide range of problems associated with excessive recreational screen time, including the following:
Irritability, depression, rapid mood changes, excessive tantrums, low frustration tolerance, poor self-regulation, disorganized behavior, oppositional defiance, social immaturity, poor eye contact, insomnia or nonrestorative sleep, attention problems, and learning difficulties
Does any of this sound familiar?
3. The Cycle Feeds Itself
Further, the seeking circuitry in the brain [hyperlink to previous blog] is activated under stress, driving us towards behaviors that provide relief (e.g., eating, drinking, screen devices). This is why your child desperately wants to go back to the device and is suddenly calm when they do. It becomes a vicious cycle. The tech activates a fight or flight response, which drives us towards technology for relief, causing further arousal, and the cycle continues.
Fortunately, we can break the cycle and a persons brain and body will return to normal. TechHealthy lifestyle choices are designed to do just that. We can take control of our children’s use of screen devices and help to reset their brains to a state of focus, balance, and flexibility.