Screen-somnia
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Yes
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Real term
No, it is not a widely recognized term people use in 2024.
Yes, it is related to digital wellness, digital addictions, etc.[1][3]
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Nov 12, 2024 09:56 PM
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Screen-somnia
[skreen-som-nee-uh]
What Is Screen-somnia?
Screen-somnia is a modern sleep disorder characterized by difficulty falling or staying asleep due to excessive screen use before bedtime, particularly from smartphones, tablets, or computers.
Word Origins:
The term combines "screen" (display device) with "insomnia" (sleep disorder), coined around 2015 as scientists and health professionals began documenting the relationship between nighttime screen use and sleep disruption.
Impact on Sleep Quality
Screen-somnia disrupts our natural sleep-wake cycle by suppressing melatonin production through blue light exposure. The brain interprets this artificial light as daylight, making it harder to wind down naturally for sleep. Additionally, the engaging nature of digital content keeps our minds active when they should be preparing for rest.
Prevention Strategies
The most effective way to prevent screen-somnia is implementing a "digital sunset" - turning off screens 1-2 hours before bedtime. Using night mode settings, blue light filters, or grayscale mode can help reduce the impact when complete avoidance isn't possible. Creating a phone-free bedroom environment also supports better sleep hygiene.
Related Terms
- Digital Sunset: The practice of turning off digital devices before bedtime to improve sleep quality
- Blue Light: Light emitted from digital screens that can disrupt natural sleep patterns
- Digital Wellness: The pursuit of healthy balance between digital technology use and physical/mental wellbeing