As a graduate student, I’ve come to realize that excessive screen time is a double-edged sword. On one hand, technology is integral to my studies—researching articles, writing papers and attending online seminars. On the other hand, the constant presence of screens in our lives often leaves me feeling mentally exhausted and disconnected from the real world.

Our screen usage as students is so high that it’s almost unavoidable. I’ve recently started to notice my eyes feeling fatigued and overstressed, a problem that’s become hard to ignore. I know this is something that can be addressed, but as students, it’s not as simple as it seems. Throughout the day, we’re constantly switching between screens. In class, we stare at projector screens while taking notes on a laptop or iPad. But that’s just the beginning. After class, we follow up with emails and stay connected to classmates and professors. Then comes time to study, which also requires laptops and iPads for notes and reference to lectures.

And let’s not forget about our “free” time. We might want to relax by watching a movie or binge-watching a TV show, but that only adds more strain on our eyes. More light, more screens, more exhaustion. The constant exposure to blue light from digital devices is taking a toll on both our physical and mental health.

As someone who has been feeling the effects of this lifestyle, I’ve become more intentional about taking breaks from screens. I make a point of stepping away for short periods, giving my eyes a chance to rest. I’ve also started wearing blue light-blocking glasses to reduce exposure, which has made a noticeable difference in minimizing fatigue.

In today’s world, screen time is an inevitable part of academic and professional life. However, by recognizing the issue and taking small, intentional steps to manage our screen usage, we can help mitigate the negative effects. Balancing the demands of academics with self-care is a constant challenge, but it’s essential for our well-being.

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