Depression can be caused by a range of factors, from family history to stressful events and lifestyle habits. That\u2019s psychotherapist Niro Feliciano has a go-to question when talking to a new client about potential signs of the mental health condition.<\/p>\n
Mental Health Tip of the Day: Think About Your Screen Time When Assessing Yourself for Depression<\/p>\n
\u201cWhen I\u2019d have a client come in and they\u2019d say, \u2018I don\u2019t feel motivated to do the things that I like to do, that I normally do to start a new habit,\u2019 I would automatically begin to assess them for depression,\u201d Feliciano explains. \u201cAnd now the first thing I ask is, \u2018Let\u2019s talk about your screen time.\u2019\u201d<\/p>\n
That\u2019s because of the high levels of the \u201cfeel-good hormone\u201d dopamine that devices like smartphones provide, she says, which can make it easier to do other tasks, especially if they\u2019re boring or unrewarding at the beginning.<\/p>\n
Why It Matters<\/p>\n
Research<\/a> has found that high amounts of screen time can be a predictor for depression symptoms. It\u2019s a phenomenon that\u2019s especially concerning for preteens and adolescents, experts say.<\/p>\n Some studies<\/a> have indicated that the connection may be that more screen time leads less physical activity (which has been linked to better mental health), poor sleep quality and social challenges.<\/p>\n How to Get Started<\/p>\n If you\u2019re struggling with depression symptoms, it\u2019s recommended to see a mental healthcare provider, such as a therapist or psychiatrist. (If you are in immediate crisis, the 988 National Suicide & Crisis Hotline is Available.)<\/p>\n For most people, depression can be treatable with a combination of talk therapy, medications and lifestyle changes, according to Mayo Clinic<\/a>.<\/p>\n Looking to cut back on your screen time specifically? Try Feliciano\u2019s 30-day plan<\/a> to improve your attention span, which involves a lot less time on your phone.<\/p>\n