Binge-watching Netflix or other TV shows has become a way of life for many of us, but it might be having some negative effects on our mental health.
A new study published by the American Public Health Association has shown strong links to binge-watching and increased depression and anxiety in individuals.
The study, undertaken by the University of Toledo is titled: Viewing Patterns and Addiction to Television among Adults Who Self-Identify as Binge-Watchers.
There were strong links shown between those who binge-watched shows like Orange Is The New Black and those who were anxious and depressed.
The researchers polled North Americans about their binge-watching habits which they classified as two to five consecutive hours of television in one day.
The scientists concluded that binge watching is a “growing public health concern.”
However, the problem may not be that you’re watching too much Netflix, but that you are binge watching alone.
According to Nico Long of The Daily Dot: “Research has long shown that anti-social behaviors, including prolonged bouts of isolation, lead to greater feelings of unhappiness and melancholy.”
So, it may not be technology that’s leading to people’s depression, rather the lack of social connection that leads people to spend a lot of time alone.
