Neurologist reveals mobile screen drains more than it relaxes

Mobile phones have evolved from basic communication tools into constant companions, especially for younger users who often turn to screens even during moments of rest.

But according to Dr. Priyanka Sehrawat, this habit may be doing more harm than good to the brain.

In a recent Instagram post, the Gurugram-based neurologist explained that using mobile devices does not allow the brain to truly relax.

While scrolling through content may offer a short-term dopamine boost — linked to the brain’s reward system — it can ultimately lead to increased mental fatigue.

“If you’re trying to relax by using your phone, you’re actually tiring your brain,” she said, noting that screens bombard users with rapid, continuous streams of information. “Instead of calming you, it mentally drains you.”

Dr. Sehrawat highlighted that prolonged screen exposure can overstimulate the brain, raising stress levels and disrupting natural cognitive rest cycles.

Over time, this pattern may contribute to a range of health concerns, including anxiety, depression, migraines, headaches and poor sleep habits.

The issue is particularly pronounced at night, when excessive screen use can interfere with sleep quality and delay the brain’s ability to wind down.

Despite the widespread dependence on smartphones, Dr. Sehrawat stressed that disconnecting — even briefly — is both possible and beneficial.

She recommended several simple, screen-free alternatives to help the brain recover after a long day.

These include practicing deep breathing exercises, journaling or writing down thoughts, reading a book, engaging in conversation with others, taking a walk outdoors or listening to music.

The key, she noted, is to shift away from passive screen consumption toward activities that allow the mind to slow down and reset.

As digital habits continue to shape daily life, experts like Dr. Sehrawat are urging people to rethink how they unwind — emphasising that true relaxation may lie in stepping away from screens rather than scrolling through them.