Fresh Science Trends

Addictive Screen Use Trajectories and Youth Mental Health High or increasing trajectories of addictive screen use (social media, mobile phones, or video games) are associated with elevated risks of suicidal behaviors, suicidal ideation, and worse mental health outcomes in US youth. Photo by Inspa Makers on Unsplash Yes,  addictive screen use trajectories  are strongly associated with increased risks of  suicidal behaviors ,  suicidal ideation , and  worse mental health outcomes  in US youth, according to a cohort study of 4,285 adolescents. The study emphasized that the  pattern  of  addictive use  (characterized by difficulty stopping, withdrawal, tolerance, and conflict), rather than just the total hours of screen time, is the critical factor linking screen engagement to poor mental health. Key Findings from the Study High Prevalence of Increasing Addictive Use Nearly  one-third (31.3%)  of adolescents showed an  increa...

Sleep is truly one of life’s simplest yet most essential acts of self-care. Yet, many of us wonder: exactly how many hours of sleep do we need to feel our best? The answer varies quite a bit depending on your age, and understanding this can help you prioritize rest in your busy life. There’s nothing quite like surrendering to deep, restful sleep — where stress melts away and your body quietly recharges for a brighter tomorrow. Prioritize your sleep, and watch your days bloom with fresh energy and balance. Photo by Vladislav Muslakov on Unsplash Dr. Sudhir Kumar, a respected neurologist, recently shared some eye-opening insights on X (formerly Twitter) about how much sleep the average person needs at every stage of life: Newborns (up to 3 months): 14 to 17 hours Infants (4 to 12 months): 12 to 16 hours, including naps Young children (1 to 5 years): 10 to 14 hours, including naps School-aged kids (6 to 12 years): 9 to 12 hours Teenagers (13 to 18 years): 8 to 10 hours Adults (18 years a...