Reduced Mobile Phone Usage with Effects on Mental Health

The study on mobile phone use by the University for Continuing Education Krems, led by Christoph Pieh, involved 111 students with an average age of 23 years. One group used the smartphone for a maximum of two hours per day, while the control group used it for an average of 4.5 hours.

Reduced Mobile Phone Use: Significantly Fewer Depressive Symptoms

After three weeks, slight to moderate effects were observed. Depressive symptoms were reduced by 27 percent, stress decreased by 16 percent, sleep quality increased by 18 percent, and overall well-being improved by 14 percent, according to a press release. "For the first time, we were able to demonstrate a causal relationship between smartphone use and mental health," Pieh is quoted as saying. However, the positive effects quickly dissipated once mobile phone use increased again. In a follow-up examination, the values approached the baseline level again. Therefore, a sustainable change in behavior is important.

(APA/Red)

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