Canadians sacrificing mental health with more screen time during pandemic: study

By

VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) — Canadians spending more time on their phones and computers could be hurting their mental health, according to a new study.

Statistics Canada says as people’s daily routines have been altered by COVID-19, about two-thirds of Canadians increased their screen time during widespread shutdowns and the introduction of physical distancing measures.

“While physical distancing measures are necessary to reduce virus transmission, prolonged restrictions can lead to decreased outdoor exercise and poorer self-perceived mental health,” Stats Can says.

Less than one-quarter of Canadians say they spent more time playing video games, but those who spent time outdoors or exercising reported better mental and physical health.

The difference is especially pronounced for women who put down the electronics and go outside. Women who were exercising reported positively on their general health.

Overall, men and women whose screen time stayed about the same, or went down, were more likely to say their health was good or excellent, compared to those who increased their screen time.

Stats Can also says maintaining opportunities for outdoor exercise and limiting screen time may promote better mental and general health during periods of confinement.

Top Stories

Top Stories

Most Watched Today