The Impact of Television on Mental Health: A Double-Edged Sword

By: MSW Intern Marissa Mireles, QMHP-CS

Created: February 14, 2025

Published: February 17, 2025

Television has long been a source of entertainment, education, and news and shapes the cultural and social structure of societies around the world. However, as we continue to spend more time in front of the screen, it's crucial to understand how television influences the mind and mental health. While TV can offer positive effects, such as relaxation or learning opportunities, it can also have a detrimental impact when consumed excessively or in unhealthy ways.

When used mindfully, television can serve as a tool for mental relaxation and stress reduction. After a long, demanding day, a light-hearted show or a favorite movie can provide a much-needed escape, allowing the mind to unwind. This form of relaxation can be important for individuals who are dealing with stress or anxiety. TV also offers a platform for learning, whether it's through documentaries, news broadcasts, or educational programs. Such content can broaden one's horizons, introduce new ideas, and keep viewers informed about the world around them. Television also serves as a means of connection. Shared experiences of watching popular shows or sporting events can foster social bonds and bring people together. Conversations about TV shows can provide common ground, strengthening relationships with friends, family, and colleagues.

While TV can offer benefits, it can also take a toll on mental health, especially when it becomes a habitual or compulsive activity. One of the primary concerns is the amount of time spent watching television. With the rise of streaming platforms, it has become increasingly easy to binge-watch shows for hours at a time. This behavior of being stationary for a long period of time is linked to a range of negative health outcomes, including obesity and poor sleep. When physical activity is replaced by hours of TV, it can create a cycle of lethargy and isolation, negatively affecting overall well-being.

Mental health is also affected by the content of the shows we watch. Consuming violent or distressing material can lead to heightened anxiety and stress. Research has shown that violent or traumatic scenes on TV can trigger fear, irritability, and even contribute to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in vulnerable individuals. For instance, frequent exposure to crime shows or violent news reports can distort one’s perception of the world, creating a sense of constant danger and insecurity.

Another negative aspect is the portrayal of unrealistic body images and lifestyles. Many TV shows and advertisements promote an idealized version of beauty or success, leading to comparisons that can lower self-esteem. People, especially young viewers, can internalize these unrealistic images, which can lead to body dysmorphia, depression, or anxiety. The rise of social media and influencers has further exacerbated these issues, as people now measure their self-worth against curated and often distorted images.

TV addiction is a growing concern, particularly as technology has made it easier to watch content anytime, anywhere. The addictive nature of binge-watching often results in the neglect of responsibilities, relationships, and self-care. This isolation can foster feelings of loneliness and depression. It is also important to note that excessive TV watching can interfere with sleep patterns, leading to sleep deprivation, which has its own set of mental health consequences, including mood swings, anxiety, and cognitive impairment.

Television is a double-edged sword. When consumed mindfully and in moderation, it can be a great source of relaxation, learning, and social connection. However, when consumed too much or watched mindlessly, it can lead to detrimental effects on mental health, from increased anxiety and stress to poor physical health and self-esteem issues. It’s essential for individuals to find a healthy balance, choosing content that enriches their lives and ensuring that television consumption doesn’t take over their time or well-being. Prioritizing other activities, such as physical exercise, social interaction, and engaging in hobbies, is key to maintaining a healthy relationship with TV and mental health.

‍

References:

Benjamin Anderson, M. (n.d.). Media Excess & Mental Health. Psychiatric Times. https://www.psychiatrictimes.com/view/media-excess-mental-health 

Salamon, M. (2024, March 1). Too much TV might be bad for your brain. Harvard Health. https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/too-much-tv-might-be-bad-for-your-brain#:~:text=Compared%20with%20people%20who%20watched,higher%20risk%20of%20Parkinson’s%20disease. 

Takeuchi, H., & Kawashima, R. (2023, March 8). Effects of television viewing on brain structures and risk of dementia in the elderly: Longitudinal analyses. Frontiers in neuroscience. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10030518/ 

‍