Study: Limiting Screen Time Reduces Stress and Depression
March 21, 2025
Smartphones are used much more extensively today than in the past, and perhaps reducing screen time would be beneficial. A recent study from the University for Continuing Education Krems suggests just that. A research team discovered that reducing daily smartphone use to less than two hours leads to a noticeable improvement in well-being.
"We were able to show for the first time a causal relationship between smartphone use and mental health," explains study leader Christoph Pieh, Professor of Psychosomatic Medicine and Health Research in Krems.
Improvements After Three Weeks
In the randomized controlled study published in the journal "BMC Medicine" published, the daily smartphone use of one group was limited to a maximum of two hours. The control group maintained their average use of 4.5 hours per day. The results after three weeks:
- Depressive symptoms decreased by 27 percent
- Stress decreased by 16 percent
- Sleep quality improved by 18 percent
- Overall well-being increased by 14 percent
"We are in the middle effect range when it comes to depressive symptoms," says Pieh, which is remarkable but requires further research. However, for most participants, smartphone use increased again after the three weeks. Only those who adhered very strictly to the two-hour limit spent less time on their phones afterward, reports Pieh – and continued to experience the positive effects.
"There is a recommendation to limit screen time to two hours – but hardly anyone adheres to it, including myself," Pieh continues. "The challenge lies not only in the reduction but also in the sustainable change of usage behavior."
The Digital Age: A Balancing Act for Our Children
This study highlights a critical challenge facing parents today: how to navigate the increasing presence of technology in our children's lives. It's clear that excessive screen time can negatively impact mental health and well-being. But how do we ensure our children are prepared for a digital future while protecting them from its potential downsides?
Traditional schooling often struggles to address this complex issue effectively. The curriculum may not adequately cover crucial digital literacy skills, and the focus often remains on rote memorization rather than critical thinking and problem-solving. This is where innovative educational approaches become essential.
Introducing BlitzFast: Education Reimagined for the Digital Age
At BlitzFast, we believe in empowering children to thrive in a rapidly evolving world. As a fully AI-powered online school, we offer a flexible and safe educational alternative that not only covers the German curriculum but goes far beyond.
We understand the concerns highlighted by this study about excessive screen time and its impact on mental health. That's why we prioritize a balanced learning environment.
Here's how BlitzFast is different:
- Beyond Traditional Subjects: We integrate forward-thinking topics like entrepreneurship, AI, digital skills, critical thinking, and sustainability into our curriculum, preparing children for the future of work.
- Personalized Learning: Our AI-powered platform adapts to each child's individual learning pace and style, ensuring a stress-free and engaging educational experience.
- Safe and Flexible Environment: Learn from anywhere in a secure online environment, free from the distractions and pressures of traditional classrooms. Addressing real concerns like bullying and violence.
- Skills for the Future: We focus on developing practical skills that will empower children to become founders, innovators, and problem-solvers.
BlitzFast was founded by Engin, a father of four who recognizes the shortcomings of conventional education. He envisioned a school that offers his children a first-rate education regardless of where they lived, and that addressed the problems his son was having, like bullying and violence.
BlitzFast is more than just a school; it’s a platform empowering families with freedom, whether they’re expats or digital nomads, without compromising on education.
What can we do?
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Check and limit screen time: Most operating systems allow you to track screen time or set limits. iPhone users (iOS 12 and later) can find the “Screen Time” feature in the settings. Android settings (e.g. Samsung) include “Digital Wellbeing & Parental Controls”. You can use this to manage your child's screen time.
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Be aware of how we use our phone and what it “costs” us: Ask yourself the question: "What am I compensating for with it? Is it boredom?" Also, think about the losses we suffer through smartphone use: Are we stressed by it, for example? "And above all: What losses do I have through lost lifetime? If we assume an average use of three and a half hours, as is normal for adolescents, the cell phone screen time corresponds to around ten years of life," explains Pieh. "Think about it: What can you do in ten years?"
Be Part of the BlitzFast Vision
BlitzFast is currently in development, and we are seeking an exclusive test group of parents who want to help shape this vision. Your feedback will help us refine the platform, from AI-powered core subject learning to hands-on projects and creative subjects.
Ready to join the education revolution?
Sign up for our newsletter today and become part of the BlitzFast test group! https://blitzfa.st
In Conclusion:
The study underscores the importance of finding a healthy balance between technology and well-being. BlitzFast offers a solution that not only addresses the potential downsides of excessive screen time but also equips children with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in the digital age. We are creating a future where education is personalized, engaging, and empowering. Join us on this exciting journey!
