Why your brain may need a phone break

Smartphones have become a major part of everyday life. Many people check their phones as soon as they wake up and continue using them until bedtime. But have you ever wondered how constant phone use may affect your brain?

A new study suggests that limiting smartphone use for just 72 hours may lead to changes in brain activity.

What did the study find?

Researchers from Heidelberg University and the University of Cologne in Germany studied 25 young adults between the ages of 18 and 30. The participants were asked to reduce their smartphone use for three days.

They could still use their phones for essential tasks and important communication.

Before and after the three-day period the participants underwent MRI brain scans and psychological tests. The researchers noticed changes in brain areas linked to the brain’s reward system and addictive behaviors.

How did smartphones affect brain activity?

During the brain scans participants were shown different pictures, including smartphones as well as everyday objects such as boats and flowers. After just three days of limited smartphone use researchers observed changes in how certain areas of the brain responded to these images.

The findings suggest that our relationship with smartphones may involve more than simple communication.  The desire to check a phone can also be connected to social interaction and the brain’s reward system.

Should you take a break from your phone?

The study raises an interesting question about how regular smartphone use may affect the brain over time.

If reducing phone use for only 72 hours can be linked to changes in brain activity researchers say it is worth exploring what might happen when people reduce their screen time for longer periods.

Could a digital detox help?

Taking regular breaks from smartphones may be a useful habit. Spending less time on your phone can give you more opportunities to focus on other activities spend time with people and take a break from constant notifications.

A simple digital detox may also help you create healthier phone habits and give your mind some much needed time away from the screen.

The bottom line

Smartphones are useful tools but using them constantly may not be ideal.  Taking short regular breaks from your phone could be a simple way to build a healthier relationship with technology.