Striking the Balance: Establishing Healthy Screen Time Habits
Phone Addiction: What Constitutes Normal and Healthy Usage?
In the era of digital dominance, finding a healthy equilibrium between screen time and overall well-being is critical, and health organizations provide specific guidelines for different age groups.
Adults (18-64 years old):
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week. In addition, establishing a balanced lifestyle that includes work, family, and recreational activities should be the priority, with screen time kept within reasonable limits, typically recommended at less than 2-3 hours per day.
Teens (13-18 years old):
For adolescents, it's recommended they get 8 to 10 hours of sleep per night, prioritizing rest over screen time. The World Health Organization suggests limiting recreational screen time to no more than 2 hours a day for optimal health.
Children (2-12 years old):
The American Academy of Pediatrics advises children aged 2 to 5 to engage in no more than one hour of screen time per day, focusing on high-quality programming. For children aged 6 and older, consistent limits on screen time should be set to avoid interference with sleep and physical activities.
In conclusion, adhering to these guidelines from reputable health institutions can help individuals of all ages maintain a healthy balance between screen time and other aspects of life.
Sources:
World Health Organization (WHO)
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
American Academy of Pediatrics