Screens are everywhere. From work and school to entertainment and social media, the average person spends hours each day looking at a phone, tablet, computer, or television. But what does all that screen time do to our brains and overall well-being?

In this episode of Live Well. Be Well., hosts Kacie Schumann and Bailey Dingfield explore the growing impact of screen time on our daily lives. They discuss how much time people actually spend on screens, the mental fatigue that can come with constant digital stimulation, and practical strategies to create healthier habits without giving up technology altogether.

The conversation also gets personal as Kacie and Bailey compare their own screen time habits, share what surprised them, and talk about the changes they're trying to make.

Episode Highlights

How Much Screen Time Is Too Much?
Learn what current research says about the amount of time adults and children spend on screens and how those numbers have changed over the years.

Why Screens Can Feel So Draining
Discover why extended screen use can leave your brain feeling tired, even when you're not physically active, and how constant notifications and multitasking contribute to mental fatigue.

Simple Ways to Reduce Digital Fatigue
From taking regular breaks to adjusting screen settings and creating intentional tech-free moments, the hosts share practical tips to help reduce the strain of daily screen use.

Screen Time and Mental Well-Being
Explore how screen habits can influence sleep, focus, stress, and overall wellness, and why balance matters more than perfection.

Checking Their Own Habits
Kacie and Bailey take a look at their personal screen time reports, discuss what surprised them, and share realistic goals for creating healthier digital routines.

Resources

Screen Time Statistics and Trends
https://explodingtopics.com/blog/screen-time-stats

American Academy of Ophthalmology: Computer Vision Syndrome (Digital Eye Strain)
https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/computer-usage

CDC: Sleep and Sleep Disorders
https://www.cdc.gov/sleep/

Have a question, topic idea, or someone you would like to hear on the podcast?

Send suggestions to Kacie.Schumann@CityofAmes.org.