Stress/Anxiety response from Computer Screen Stimulation

Has anyone had experience with stress and anxiety responses from reading on a computer screen? It seems that as my eyes read and scan words online my brain gets overstimulated and sends a surge of stress hormones throughout my body. I can feel the stress pain in My chest and in my lower back where my adrenal gland’s(glands that produce cortisol and adrenaline)are located. I never feel stressed reading on paper but only online. I have dealt with this for 10+ years and each time I read online that negative effect can last hours sometimes days dependnding On how long I read behind the screen. The stress response makes me feel physically exhausted, stressed, anxious and sometimes depressed. If anyone has found a solution or tips to counteract this experience, I would love to hear from you.

Hello WS and welcome!

I am sorry that you are experiencing this trigger...as we all know how much computers are taking more of our time and attention as part of the current lifestyle.

The blue light behind back light devices are known to be a factor in insomnia, as they do interfere with our circadian rhythm...so it makes sense that someone with a system that is sensitive to light could have this anxiety response. Any chance you also deal with migraines or have other neurological triggers?

One easy fix is an amber screen. This is a film that you can buy (some devices like phones and tablets also have an amber light feature in their tools/settings) and place over the screen of your computer/device to cancel out the blue light effect.

The only other suggestions I can make are to break down your computer use into the shortest sessions possible, taking breaks inbetween…

...and to practice daily coping skills for the anxiety.

I hope you can get the answers and relief you seek soon. Post with us anytime for support if you find it helpful.

Scaredy Cat