Studies show that screen time and sugar directly affect my child's mental health. I'm seeing my child disassociate, but at the same time, I'm being told this is irrelevant.
When it comes to screen time, sugar, and the intensity they can create, in terms of dissociation, I don’t know the exact link. From a psychological perspective, I would need more information to address that properly. If we can get a bit more clarity, then I think I could speak to it more effectively.
That said, screen time and sugar have similarities. Screen time can act as a dopamine hit—we're constantly looking for the next thing. Sugar works in a similar way, activating neuroreceptors and making us crave more. Over time, we can become dependent on it, much like an addiction. The same goes for screen time—it creates a cycle where we feel like we need it.
When this dependence becomes routine, we might start dissociating from life because we're so engaged in these stimuli.
One possible solution is to be more intentional about consumption. Adjusting diet—such as shifting from processed sugar to natural sugars in fruits and vegetables—could be beneficial. I’d suggest experimenting to see how your child responds. It’s not about completely eliminating sugar but introducing it in a healthier way where possible.
For more specific guidance, it may be helpful to consult a dietitian or nutritionist to explore foods that can support mental health and reduce the potential negative effects of sugar and screen time.
