Is Birmingham ready to unplug? The impact of screen time

A new survey by Legal & General (L&G) polled more than 2,000 people across the UK, including Birmingham, delving into the nation’s relationship with their devices, revealing just how much time we spend on our phones, the impact of screen time on daily life and whether Brits are ready to switch off.

According to the survey, people in Birmingham spend an average of 3.26 hours per day on their smartphones—slightly lower than the national average of 3.41 hours.

Many find their phones useful, with the top benefits including staying connected with friends and family, and accessing news and information. However, this convenience comes with challenges, as 60% of Birmingham residents feel pressure to always be available online.

With this, almost half of Birmingham residents want to reduce their screen time, recognising that it can interfere with social interactions. Over a quarter of respondents said they sometimes use their phone during face-to-face conversations, and nearly one in five admitted to doing so frequently.

Despite the widespread use of smartphones, many are taking steps to manage their screen time. Overall, one in three (36%) say they try to be mindful of their phone use, while 32% actively disconnect when spending time with others. Meanwhile, 12% of respondents set specific time limits for mobile usage.

Finding a healthy balance with our phones requires a mindful approach. Here are some tips for learning to live with our phones while maintaining a connection to the rest of our lives:

Disable notifications: Those constant ‘pings’ are a clear distraction. Turn off app notifications or use the ‘Do Not Disturb’ feature to regain focus.

Phone-free zones: Keep your phone out of the bedroom to help improve your sleep quality and ensure a more restful night.

Monitor your usage: Check your smartphone's usage data and set goals for how much time you spend on your phone. Maybe even reward yourself for hitting targets! Take regular breaks: Schedule time away from your phone to move around and refresh, improving both your productivity and overall wellbeing.

Review your apps: Identify which apps are taking up most of your attention, whether it's games or social media, and consider deleting the ones that no longer serve you.

For more information, please visit: https://www.legalandgeneral.com/insurance/life-insurance/screen-time-reality-check/