Studies show that the recommended screen usage a teenager should have is a maximum of two hours a day. Studies also show teens that have more than two hours a day increase the risk of obesity. Even one more hour of screen time a week can increase a teen’s risk of obesity as an adult.

The subject of screen time is more than just using a phone. It could be watching TV, playing video games and using a computer. Screen time can be both productive and counterproductive for users.

For example, a productive way you can use screen time is whilst doing homework for school or completing work for a job that requires a screen. A way that it can be counterproductive is playing video games or watching too much TV.

Although video games could seem counterproductive, they are a good way for teenagers to relieve stress and anxiety. A good half hour could be useful for health, but people tend to lose track of time.

“Addicting apps causes me to spend screen time like games and social apps. Snapchat, for example, is an app where I can talk to my friends,” senior Roberto Rush said.

A way we can prevent excessive screen time is by participating in outside activities or clubs such as sports, book club, study club or other activities

“I don’t spend much screen time a day because I work out before school, and I play soccer after school,” junior Lucas Joenk said.

If you are at home and don’t know what to do besides watch TV, you can always read a book, meditate and just have some time for yourself. You could even listen to a podcast or music while not looking at a screen.