According to their findings, constantly checking your smartphone can actually be a significant source of stress.
But just checking our phones too much can heighten our stress, and make it harder to relax.
At a Glance
Smartphone use is prevalent, and social media use has increased dramatically.
Oscar Wong / Getty Images
We do it so often that we don’t even think about it most of the time.
Unfortunately, it can create some serious stress.
Mindful use is the key.
Additionally, 55% own a tablet, and roughly nine in 10 have a computer.We are connected.
), a full 65% were connected to social media in 2015.
More recently, the Pew Research Center found that 72% of U.S. adults used social media in 2021.
The numbers are trending upward as social media is connecting us more and more.
Twitter is slightly less popular, but almost one in four (24%) use it nonetheless.
Again, we are connected!
This is understandable, considering thatconflict is a stressful experiencefor most people.
Engaging in a conflict-laden environment more often may lead to more stress.
Political Turmoil Is Making It Worse
Recent political turbulence has likely added to this source of stress.
(This is compared to only 27% of non-checkers who feel this way.)
Many people attribute this feeling to technology.
(By comparison, only 15% of non-checkers report the same.)
Loneliness can also take a tollon health and happiness.
It can have its own dangers andcan even be considered “contagious.
“This connection has created a real disconnect.
To Unplug or Not to Unplug?
The reasons behind this are somewhat complicated.
In addition to mere habit, there are benefits to social media that are particularly felt by Millennials.
The current evidence suggests that we are at least trying to set limits on our constant phone-checking.
How to Stop Constantly Checking Your Phone
People are on the right track.
You also teach others not to expect you to be constantly available.
This small boundary may make it easier to disconnect at other times and in other ways.
This puts you in greater control.
Use your phones screen time feature to set limits on how long you might use certain apps each day.
Practice being fully present and it will become easier to keep your phone in your pocket.
Start by taking a more mindful approach.
Limit yourself to when and where you’ll check your phone.
American Psychological Association.Stress in America: The State of Our Nation.
Pew Research Center.Social media fact sheet.
2022;17(1):e0262022.
Stress in America Survey, American Psychological Association, 2017.
