We live in a world where relaxation is just another “tab” we forget to close. The second the school bell rings, we do not sign off, we just switch screens. Howework on MyMathLab, communicating with teachers through emails, TikTok breaks that turn into hours of scrolling, and notifications that are often stacked. Being constantly connected to a screen was supposed to make life easier, but instead, it has made people feel more drained than ever. In a world where rest somehow became scrolling in bed until your eyes hurt, it is worth asking the question: have we become too online to actually unwind?
For some people, that answer lies in being mindful about taking breaks from their screens. For others, it is completely stepping away from technology. And for some, it is just not worrying about the problem and staying online.
For Dr. Mills, Social Studies teacher at Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy, unplugging from technology is not just a personal choice, it is a big part of her teaching. “I wanted my classroom to be a place where students connect with the material we are studying, whether we are examining an artifact, a document, a sculpture, or a work of architecture instead of a screen.” Dr. Mills explains.
Without laptops, phones, or other distractions, her students have rediscovered what it means to truly be focused in class.
“Those insights happen naturally when students are fully present, taking notes by hand, working in table groups, and engaging in discussions,” says Dr. Mills.
While it can be a hard transition at first, Dr. Mills notices that most students end up enjoying the change.
“Seniors often describe it as a ‘mental break’ from constant notifications. They appreciate having permission to slow down and be fully present in what they are learning,” Dr. Mills shared.
For Sydney Jerman ‘27, unplugging from technology began as a personal challenge.
“I noticed that I would prioritize my phone over other things, like spending time with my family,” Sydney ‘27 said. “My phone usage would stress me out because I’d lose track of time and then have to rush doing my homework.”
Cutting back her screen time wasn’t easy, but it eventually paid off. “I can [focus] better on projects now, and I turn in work I am proud of. I also spend a lot more time with my family and friends,” Sydney explained.
When Sydney wants to unwind, she turns to reading a book, taking a nap, or just something that doesn’t involve a screen.
Her advice for others is simple.
“Try slowly decreasing the time you spend on social media. And if you want to check your phone, set a timer so you do not get lost scrolling,” she suggests.
For some students, being online is not just a habit, it is a very big part of their lives. An anonymous Tolog knows how difficult it is to disconnect.
“Sometimes I feel overwhelmed and drained from being on my phone for too long. I try taking breaks, and sometimes it works, but most of the time, it does not,” she admits.
Much of her online time is spent on social media, “I am usually on FaceTime and Snapchat with friends and people I’m close with,” she said.
Even though she spends hours on her phone, she insists that it doesn’t hurt her relationships, “Honestly, being on call is how we interact now. It’s one of our new ways of hanging out,” she says.
However, school is a different story. “Being constantly on my phone definitely affects my school work and my anxiety,” she admits.
Despite her technology-dependent lifestyle, this Tolog believes that being online is a serious issue and it’s most definitely real.
“Being too online is a problem for all students. It creates a disconnect from learning and gives people anxiety about what’s going on everywhere else,” she said.
Ms. Nardon, FSHA’s Director of Counseling and Psychological Services, sees firsthand how technology affects students.
“Screen light makes it harder for people to fall asleep. Teenagers need at least seven hours of sleep, and lack of it affects memory and focus,” Ms. Nardon explains.
For students who are unsure about whether they need a break, she suggests looking at how online life affects mood.
“There’s a correlation between social media and increased levels of depression. If what you are seeing online changes how you feel, it might be time to unplug,” Ms. Nardon advises.
Navigating screen time is not a simple thing to do. Some students, like Sydney, are creating a space to breathe. Others, like the anonymous Tolog, are learning to balance their digital world with real life. Teachers like Dr. Mills show the power of being able to be low-tech in a high-tech world. And it is also important to remember that balance will always matter more than perfection, like
Ms. Nardon tells us.
