Looking at a screen before you go to bed can stop you from getting as much sleep as you should.

Your body makes something called melatonin, which helps you fall asleep. But looking at your screen slows how quickly your body makes melatonin. And that means it will take longer for you to snooze.

But can using social media before bed also have an effect on how much sleep you get?

Fear Of Missing Out

A lot of people use social media because they don’t want to miss out on what is happening.

And that can make a difference when you sleep. Have you ever woken up and had a quick look at your phone before you try to go to sleep?

Sometimes called ‘FOMO’ – Fear Of Missing Out – looking at your phone makes your brain more awake. Which makes it harder for you to get back to sleep.

Social Stresses

What you are looking at could make a difference too. If you see something that excites or upsets you, it could start you thinking about things.

It could feel like you can’t do anything about it until daytime, and you could start to worry or get or anxious about it. Which means you probably won’t fall asleep again.

So put the phone and social media off before bed. You’ll get more sleep and have more energy and brain power to socialise for real the next day!