Technology's affect on its users.

How does technology affect our actions? Does it cause symptoms of ADHD? Should we limit our screen time? 

Digital technology has changed our lives dramatically during the last three decades. People of all ages are now taking advantage of the massive amounts of internet information and communication platforms available to them. This technology allows us to generate, store, and process massive amounts of data while also allowing us to engage with one another quickly and efficiently. Unfortunately along with the benefits technology provides us, persistent use can have harmful effects on brain function and behavior.  A number of studies have found a link between computer use or excessive screen time and symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). According to a meta-analysis published in 2014, there is a link between media use and attention issues. After 24 months of follow-up, a recent survey of teenagers who did not have symptoms of ADHD at the start of the study found a substantial link between more frequent use of digital media and symptoms of ADHD. Although the majority of studies associating technology use and ADHD symptoms have focused on children and adolescents, this link has been discovered in adults of all ages. Screen use, according to new research, disrupts sleep, potentially affecting cognition and behavior. In infants and toddlers, everyday touch-screen use has been shown to negatively impact sleep length and overnight awakenings. Adolescents who spent more time on cellphones and touch screens had more sleep interruptions, whereas those who spent more time on tablets had poorer sleep quality and more awakenings after falling asleep. Adults who used their smart phones more frequently slept less efficiently and slept for shorter periods of time. Sleep deprivation has been associated with brain alterations such as reduced functional connectivity and gray-matter volume, as well as an increased risk of age-related cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease. Another question that has emerged, notably among frustrated parents attempting to break free from the grip of pervasive screens and devices, is how long should their kids be using devices to stop the risk of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms. Research provides evidence that shows extensive use of technology typically involves greater symptoms of attention deficit disorders. This research has pushed scientists to recommend screen time limits for people over the age of 2 and limiting children younger than that to no screen time. The average screen time usage has skyrocketed in the near past along with the increase in social media popularity. The screen time increase can also be linked to an increased risk of health issues like insomnia, obesity, anxiety, and depression, according to doctors. 7 hours is how long a typical teen uses their devices per day according to multiple reports in the past couple of years. Experts recommend only two hours of screen time per day outside of school or work use. Too much can lead to many of the symptoms discussed in this blog. It is important to control and monitor your own screen time use to limit the risks of certain health hazards.