On World Brain Day, medical practitioner Dr. Augustina Charway-Felli emphasised the critical importance of sleep for brain health during an appearance on the Ultimate Health Show with Nortey Dua of Joy FM.

According to Dr. Charway-Felli, adults need seven to nine hours of continuous sleep to maintain optimal brain function.

She highlighted that insufficient sleep can increase the risk of dementia, hypertension, stroke, seizures, and neuropsychiatric issues like hallucinations after prolonged sleep deprivation. Sleep allows the brain to reset and heal, preparing it for the next day's challenges.

Dr. Charway-Felli also discussed the impact of screen time on brain health. Prolonged screen use can strain the eyes and accelerate vision changes with age. More importantly, excessive screen time without breaks can harm brain function.

While social media can be beneficial for creators actively using their brains, passive consumption can lead to reduced brain activity and impaired cognitive function over time.

Dr. David Brodie-Mends added that the instant gratification from social media, particularly platforms like TikTok and Instagram, can condition the brain to seek short-term rewards, reducing the ability to focus on tasks requiring sustained attention.

Dr. Freda Amoatin noted the social impact of excessive screen use, highlighting how it can replace valuable social interactions.

Maintaining social connections is crucial for brain health, as simple acts of interaction can enhance longevity and well-being.

In summary, adequate sleep and mindful screen time are essential for maintaining brain health and overall well-being.