One hour of computer use per day may reduce risk of depression and dementia

As we recalled in a previous article, in the collective imagination and in the words of some less informed researchers and practitioners, screens are regarded as the evil of the century. In fact, according to the latter, they fool our children or involve the presence of autism spectrum disorder, to name only these two fabrications. As we explained, these essentialist claims are far from reality. More broadly, we also point to the harmful effects of screens with regard to effects on mental health and the occurrence of neurodegenerative diseases.

So far, epidemiological studies show that spending more time on screens increases the risk of depression, dementia, and Parkinson’s disease. Most authors agree that a sedentary lifestyle is the mediating variable between screen time and the risk of these various pathologies. However, studies generally lump all screen time together without bothering to differentiate between them. A study recently published inInternational Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity The work was carried out using data from the UK Biobank Cohort relating to British men and women aged 39 to 72 years and qualifies observations from previous studies.

Optimal computer time between 30 minutes to one hour per day

In their epidemiological study, scientists found that moderate use ComputerComputer The risk of depression, dementia and Parkinson’s disease is reduced. Conversely, time spent systematically watching television increases this same risk. These results remain valid after activity is taken into account statistically physiquephysique Some participants. The authors explain this by formulating several hypotheses: using computers requires more muscular activity and less inactivity, possibly greater energy expenditure when using computers, engagement in pleasant cognitive activities that occur more frequently when using computers. and social interactions that are necessarily more extensive when using computers. beyond this DurationDurationThe positive effects of activities done on computers gradually replace the negative effects.

Importance of quality daily screen time

The authors point out that physical activity is by far the best defense against preventing the various pathologies studied. Still, it’s worth noting that not all screen time is created equal. Although there are many uses that can be problematic, there are also practices that contribute to the well-being of individuals: exercising, socializing, and solving problems. Video gameVideo gameKeep in touch with family and friends Via Social NetworksSocial Networks Or learn about the world and apply critical thinking to the information we encounter. The same appears to be true for children, according to a recently published study The Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry By French researchers: It is necessary to evaluate the context of screen use so that minutes spent on screens are not pointed out as the culprit, rather than those that are actually useful to us and do us good.