Digital Distractions: Using devices at night can affect sleep and health

(Robin Foster – HealthDay News) – This has probably happened to everyone at some point: it is about to go to sleep, But instead”“Digital distraction” keeps you awake hours later than you planned.

“the Procrastination at bedtime that it Common problemsince people often They stay up later than expected While watching a show or shopping online Dr. Alexander Abreu, Sleep medicine physician and spokesperson for the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM).

“With so many digital distractions competing for our time, it may be tempting to watch another episode or another viral video, but nothing stops us.” Sleep the recommended seven hours each night It could be “harmful to public health and well-being”Abreu added in a press release from AASM.

a reconnaissance A recent AASM report noted the scope of the problem: Ninety-one percent of those surveyedThey said they had I lost sleep Because they stayed up past their bedtime watching a TV show. at the same time, 75 percent He said Browse and buy online It also keeps them awake at night.

The AASM offers the following guidance on how to avoid digital interruptions and sleep better in the process:

Disconnect from devices at night: Turn off all electronic devices at least 30 minutes to an hour before bedtime. Leave your phone in another room: It’s tempting to use your phone while you’re in bed, so put it in a separate room at night. If you use your phone for your morning alarm, consider purchasing an alarm clock instead.

Follow a relaxing evening routine: take a warm bath or read a book or magazine before bed. Set a sleep schedule: Go to bed and wake up at the same time regularly. Don’t let what you do online get in the way of precious hours of sleep.

Turn off notifications: If your phone must be in your room at night, turn off notifications and sound to avoid distraction.

more information. Visit the Center for Disease Control (CDC) to learn more about sleep disorders.

Source: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, press release, December 4, 2023

*HealthDay reporters © The New York Times 2023