Screen time before bed linked to insomnia and reduced sleep, study finds

A new study reveals that using screens before bed significantly increases the risk of insomnia and reduces sleep duration. The survey, which included 45,202 young adults in Norway, found that screen use in bed raises the risk of insomnia by 59% and shortens sleep by 24 minutes.

However, the research, published in Frontiers of Psychiatry, found no difference between the impact of social media and other screen activities, suggesting that screen time in general, rather than specific apps, is the main culprit.

The study’s findings emphasize that any screen activity after bedtime can disrupt sleep patterns, primarily due to blue light exposure, which interferes with the body’s circadian rhythm.

Researchers recommend stopping screen use at least 30-60 minutes before bed to improve sleep quality. They also suggest turning off notifications and creating a consistent sleep routine. By limiting screen time and prioritizing rest, individuals can reduce their chances of developing sleep problems.