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Technology and You

image-Technology and You

Technology has become a really big part of our lives. We use it for everything from entertainment to work, but when is technology too much? This section can help you figure out when to unplug for a while.

Screen Time

Even though we’re surrounded by technology, it’s important to take a break from it sometimes. How much screen time is too much?

July 6 2025

3 mins

The time we spend using technology is getting longer and longer, and so it’s important to realize when we should take a break. The time we spend on our screens can be positive, but you may also experience some negative effects. You need to know how much screen time is too much, and be able to set limits for yourself. Screen time includes any activity on a screen including but not limited to:

  • watching TV (including, cable and streaming services like Netflix)
  • playing video games
  • watching videos on YouTube
  • using a computer, tablet or phone to go online
  • texting
  • using social media
  • reading an ebook

 

So, why is it important to limit your screen time? What does too much screen time do to you? When someone is using technology too much, they may experience negative effects such as:

 

Experts suggest that people should not have more than two hours of screen time a day. But, that may not be realistic for a lot of people, with school and work requiring more and more time on a computer. In that case, try to limit screen time to when it is required, rather than spending most of your free time on your smartphone, TV, tablet or computer. Managing your screen time is important for a healthy lifestyle.

 


This content was written by our partners at BC Children’s Hospital’s Health Promotion and Health Literacy team, in collaboration with BC youth and clinicians.