HuffPost: You can use your smartphone for 3 hours a day without harm to your mental health, expert says

A smartphone can be used for no more than three hours a day without harming your health and mental health, Australian neuroscientist TJ Power told HuffPost.

According to the scientist, the abuse of gadgets overloads the brain with dopamine. This neurotransmitter is responsible for motivation, pleasure, and a sense of satisfaction. The specialist explained that every time a person receives a notification, “scrolls” through the news feed or plays a game on a smartphone, the brain produces this chemical compound. This creates a short-term feeling of pleasure—but with constant stimulation, the dopamine regulation system begins to “overheat.”

Power said he personally tries to spend no more than three hours a day on his smartphone, and he follows that rule quite strictly.

The specialist emphasized, however, that the indicated norm is not universal. He advises not to get carried away by counting screen time, but to focus on how the smartphone affects the quality of life.

If the smartphone screen drains your energy, takes away your attention, or replaces live communication, you need to reconsider your behavior, the neuroscientist said..

Children, adolescents, and young people are especially vulnerable to smartphone “overdose,” the scientist added. They are more likely to have problems with self-esteem, social skills and learning, he said. Adults are less receptive, but may also experience apathy, irritability, and communication difficulties.

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