Social Media Use and Its Impact on Sleep

Recently, even Mark Zuckerberg had to testify in court because platforms like Meta Platforms are accused of having addictive potential. But let us be honest: we have all picked up our phones at 10:07 p.m. just for a quick check and suddenly it is 11:58 p.m. Pure time magic.

Social Media Fatigue – more than just a yawn

There is even a term for it: social media fatigue. It describes a subjective feeling of exhaustion or burnout after intensive use. It sounds harmless, but it feels more like your internal battery is at two percent, mentally and physically.

Why does our sleep suffer?

1. Our brain stays active

News, debates and social comparisons increase mental arousal. Instead of winding down, the brain stays in analysis mode. Falling asleep becomes difficult.

2. Five minutes turn into fifty

That quick scroll pushes bedtime further back. Ten p.m. quietly becomes midnight and recovery time shrinks.

3. Blue light instead of evening calm

The blue light from smartphones and other devices can suppress melatonin production. The body thinks it is daytime even though we should be asleep.

Effects on sleep quality

It is not just about sleeping less, it is about sleeping worse. Commenting, liking and waiting for reactions increases emotional activation. Add FOMO, the fear of missing out, and stress levels rise even more. The result is lighter sleep and less recovery.

What can help?

• Set fixed time slots for social media use

• Take a digital break at least 60 minutes before bed

• Choose relaxing alternatives like reading or meditation

• Use blue light filters

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In short, social media is not the ultimate villain of our sleep. But our just-one-quick-check-reflex might be. Maybe it is time to say more often: Good night, internet. See you tomorrow..