Choose people over pixels, conversations over notifications & strolling over scrolling: Principal JKPS Kunjwani
STATE TIMES NEWS
JAMMU: “Addition is the problem of our age and smart phones are the ultimate enablers”. With this opening statement, Sanah Ali of Grade XII Humanities alongwith her classmates conducted the morning assembly on the topic “Impacts of Screens on our mental health” at JKPS Kunjwani.
Whetting the appetite of the audience, Sachleen stated, “Screens are everywhere; in our pocket, on our desks, in our living rooms. Whether it’s smart phones, computers or televisions, we rely on them for work, school, entertainment and socializing. But, when our screen time increases, so do concerns about its effects on our mental well-being”.
Adding more substance to the transaction on the stage, Vaani added, “Studies have shown that excessive screen time, especially on social media, is linked to increased feelings of anxiety, depression and loneliness. When we constantly compare ourselves to the seemingly perfect lives we see online, it can damage our self-esteem and make us feel inadequate. The fear of missing out also known as FOMO can keep us glued to our screens, even when it makes us feel worse”.
Making it further impactful Saloni pitched in by saying, “In young people, the effects can be even more serious. Teens who spend too much time on screens may struggle with sleep, experience low moods, and face difficulties in forming real-world relationships. Social media platforms are designed to be addictive, and endless scrolling can make it hard to focus or enjoy offline activities. But, it’s not all bad. When used mindfully, screens can support mental health. Virtual therapy sessions, mental health apps and online support groups can offer help and connection. The key is balance”.
“We need to set boundaries for healthy screen use. That could mean limiting non-essential screen time, taking breaks every hour, turning off notifications or creating tech-free zones like the dinner table or the bedroom. In conclusion, screen time isn’t the enemy, but how we use it matters. By being more intentional about our screen habits, we can protect our mental health and create healthier more balanced life”, added Sanah Ali.
Under the segment “Quotations”, Pakhi Roy quoted her self-created quotation, “The mind needs rest to thrive, but constant whirring of screens keep it in motion, blurring the line between connection and exhaustion”. Anam-ul-haq referred to Cal Newport, “The more time you spend staring at screen, the less time you spend being truly human”. Gurpreet Singh quoted P Johnson, “Screens connect us to the world, but sometime disconnect us from ourselves”. Kuljeet Singh referred to W Right, “The digital world gives us everything expect one thing we truly need presence”.
Principal, JKPS Kunjwani Rajesh Rathore appreciated all the presenters for drawing the attention towards a serious threat posed on society today and stated, “Screens connect us, entertain us, educate us, and help us work. But like everything else, balance is the key.
Excessive screen time has silently crept into our routines, impacting our sleep, reducing our physical activity, and at times, clouding our emotional well-being. From anxiety and attention issues to loneliness and low self-esteem, our mental health is paying the price for digital over-dependence”.
“Let us remember: it’s not about rejecting technology, but about managing our screen time mindfully. So choose people over pixels, conversations over notifications & strolling over scrolling. Begin with small changes-take screen breaks, reconnect with hobbies, spend time outdoors, and above all, listen to yourself and your mind”, he summed up.
