With the new phone policy in place, the question of whether or not phones really do affect students arises.
According to the cell phone policy enforced by Fenton’s Board of Education, phone usage increases anxiety with constant notifications creating a stressful environment. It also states how Fenton’s main purpose is to foster a learning atmosphere that is focused and engaging while cell phone use just increases distractions and decreases concentration. But how much do cell phones actually affect students mentally?
According to ColumbiaPsychiatry.org, cell phones have transformed the way people interact, learn and entertain each other. Notifications and updates increase a sense of urgency and fear of missing out, resulting in high anxiety and stress levels. Excessive use can also interfere with sleep, impeding on mental health.
Social media use is also a large factor contributing to negative mental health. These platforms can create a sense of inadequacy and low self-esteem. According to TherapyBrands.com, prolonged exposure to social media content increases depression and other mental disorders.
Cell phone use can also result in isolation from friends and family members due to the lack of real-world interactions. Spending more time with a phone rather than friends and family reduces the chance of forming more meaningful relationships and connections with others. This leaves room for more anxiety and poor mental health to appear.
Overall, cell phone usage is a big contributor to negative mental health, so it is important to put the phone down and have a meaningful connection with a loved one, and a good night’s rest.
