Why The Loss Of Technology Is Changing The Brain

Ever wonder why you wake up grumpy in the morning and can’t remember that one thing? Take this into account: Technology is changing our brains. The loss of sleep and reduction of memory are all symptoms of technology transforming your brain. Studies have shown that using technology can reduce how much sleep you get. Exposure to screens at night can suppress an important hormone called melatonin which spreads nighttime information through your body. “When we use these devices before getting ready for bed, they suppress the nightly release of melatonin in the brain and shift our circadian clock. Melatonin is the hormone that helps you fall asleep and stay asleep” (Tech Timeout para 4). In other words, using technology can decrease the amount of melatonin in our body, making it harder to fall asleep. This is critical because the next day your brain will be tired from staying awake all night. In addition to screens suppressing melatonin, screen light can also mess up your brain’s sense of timing. Traditionally when the sun goes down the reduction of light cues your brain that it’s time to sleep. However, bright screens before bedtime can confuse your brain and your brain will stay awake. “Nonetheless, careful studies have shown that even our small electronic devices emit sufficient light to miscue the brain and promote wakefulness [1]” (para 5) the National Sleep Foundation explains. This shows that bright lights from your smartphone or tablet can make the brain think that it is time to
Some might first point out that the reason they are not sleeping is because they stay up late. However they fail to realize, without using technology the later you stay up, the more tired you should become. Others might mention the reason they are forgetful is because of a short term memory. Nonetheless, the reason you have a short term memory, is in fact the effect of