The Lesser-known Impacts of Excessive Screen Time
Physical side effects receive the bulk of attention when discussing the setbacks of excessive screen time. But the impacts aren’t limited to eye strain and headaches. A new report reveals how the effects of screen time are also impacting workers personally and professionally.
Article:
Much has been made of the physical side effects of excessive screen time. However, the impacts extend beyond eye strain and headaches. New research indicates screen- related eye issues are negatively affecting employees personally and professionally—which in turn is hurting employers.
Workers surveyed in the VSP® Vision Care 2026 Workplace Vision Health Report reported downturns in the following areas as a result of screen-related eye issues:
- 67% – Workplace productivity
- 48% – Well-being and quality of life
- 47% – Social activities
- 46% – Mood/temperament
With desk workers now consuming nearly 100 hours of screen time each week, it’s no surprise the percentage of employees experiencing these setbacks is increasing year over year.
Employees and employers both stand to benefit from overcoming these challenges. But how do you do that when you can’t turn off the screens?
Here are three tips:
- Encourage eye breaks – Take a 20-second screen break every 20 minutes to look at something 20 feet away.
- Use protection – Take advantage of eyewear, screen filters, and apps designed to improve comfort when viewing screens. Some insurance carriers now cover prescription and non-prescription eyewear for this purpose.
- Educate – Increase awareness of impacts and promote the benefits of healthy screen habits.
Screen time isn’t likely to go down any time soon. Workers and employers need to take proactive steps to reduce the side effects of exposure to preserve physical well-being, professional performance, and organizational success.
Get the 2026 Workplace Vision Health Report to explore the eye issues impacting organizations and solutions for improving them.