Scientists have figured out why you HAVE to scroll through your phone before bed
Raise your hand if you've ever said "one more minute" and it turned into one more hour...
When was the last time someone went to bed and the last thing they did was not check their phone, set an alarm on their phone or watch something on Netflix?
READ: Internet shocked by display book choice in online furniture listing
Probably a very, very long time ago.
Checking our phones and binge-watching series has become such a big part of typical human behaviour it's weird to imagine your routine without it.
READ: Study finds 'Jerusalema' challenge can cause serious injury, Durban specialist agrees
It's also been mentioned time and time again that this very habit is one of the worst.
You might think you're just going to check your Insta and by the time you think "I should probably sleep now", you've spent hours and hours scrolling.
READ: "I am four months postpartum and my husband is no longer attracted to me"
And don't even get us started on the "just one more episode" excuse.
If you, like the rest of us, were under the impression that this just means you have no self control, we've got some good news for you.
READ: "My boyfriend treats me like a queen, that's why I'm breaking up with him"
Well, whether it's 100% good news depends on how you choose to look at it.
Science has revealed there's actually a very obvious reason why we can't put our phones down in the evening.
READ: Are the men of KZN mature enough to accept not being the breadwinner?
According to psychologists, the name for this phenomenon is "revenge bedtime procrastination" and Medical News Today describes it exactly as 'the act of staying up after all the day's chores and activities are complete'.
Does it still sound a bit complicated? Basically, anyone who finds themselves experiencing this is trying to gain control over their lives because they don't have time for leisure activities during the day.
READ: MUST SEE: Mzansi reacts to SAPS officer putting on a show in his tiny shorts
Since it is still a very new concept, they are figuring out the psychology of it, but there is a clear correlation between heightened daytime stress and bedtime procrastination.
The 'revenge' concept comes from having to take back control of the day by delaying sleep for as long as possible.
In my professional experience, this [behaviour] presents most often in late Millennials and Gen Z's in high-pressure positions with ambitious goals and career objectives. Their behaviours are, in a way, a rebellion against the organisational cultures they are trying to navigate, and they are often aware of just how pivotal sleep is to health and performance.
READ: WATCH: Man receives birthday cake with a R140k surprise gift inside
If you think this is a description of you but you're not quite sure yet, here are the three big signs that you might be revenge bedtime procrastinating:
- You don't have a valid reason for staying up ie. an event or illness
- You are aware that delaying your bedtime will lead to negative consequences
- Reducing your sleep time by delaying going to sleep
The only positive with revenge sleep procrastination is that there's a false appearance that you have more control over your life. This is very reinforcing and will entice you to continue this behavior, even though the risks outweigh the rewards. There is no genuine positive effect to reducing the quality and time of your sleep. Consistent and good quality sleep is the foundation of sound physical and mental health.
READ: It's time to braai and win BIG!
You don't need anyone to remind you that sleep is important and that you should always make sure you get the necessary rest.
This is nothing new. However, knowing how important sleep is doesn't make one fall asleep any easier or faster.
One must always try to have what is called 'good sleep hygiene' and here are some tips to help you achieve that:
- Try to keep to a routine
- Don't drink caffeine late in the afternoons and evenings
- Actually stop using electronic devices an hour and a half before going to bed
- Make sure your bed is comfortable and inviting
- Try relaxation methods such as reading a book or meditating
READ: Research reveals which month is known as the 'Month of Cheating'
Trust us when we say that bragging about functioning on zero hours of sleep is so 2008. In 2021 we're focusing on self-care, doing what is best for our minds and our bodies, and catching a whole lot of z's.
If you're still struggling to fall asleep even after setting down your digital distractions, this popular podcast, Sleep With Me, is a must-try:
More on East Coast Radio
Main image courtesy of iStock