Short-Form Videos Killing Our Sleep!

We all love a quick scroll through YouTube, TikTok or Instagram Reels, but new research suggests that teens hooked on short-form videos may be paying a high price — in terms of sleep and mental health!

According to a study published in PsyPost, adolescents who spend a lot of time-consuming short-form video content tend to experience more sleep problems and increased social anxiety.

Why It Matters:

1. Endless Scroll = Endless Mind Stimulation: Short videos provide quick, dopamine-filled entertainment, but constantly switching between clips can make it harder for the brain to “wind down” at night.

2. Anxiety Rises: Social pressure and fear of missing out (FOMO) increase with constant exposure to highlight reels of others’ lives, leading to social anxiety.

3. Sleep Disruptions: The blue light from screens, combined with late-night scrolling, disrupts the production of melatonin, the hormone responsible for regulating sleep.

What Can We Do?

• Setting screen time limits can help teens break the endless scroll and protect their sleep.

• Encourage offline activities before bed — like reading or meditating — to help the brain relax and prepare for rest.

• Be mindful of content consumption: It’s not just about how much time is spent, but also the type of content being consumed.

While short-form videos are fun, it’s important to balance our digital lives with proper rest and social connection. After all, good sleep is key to both mental and physical well-being!