A recent study has found that putting a phone in silent mode may actually increase stress levels. The study, which was conducted by researchers at the University of Sussex, surveyed over 800 participants and found that those who kept their phones on silent mode experienced higher levels of stress compared to those who left their phones on ring or vibration mode.
The researchers believe that the reason for this is that when a phone is on silent mode, people are not aware of when they are receiving calls or messages, and therefore they are more likely to experience “phantom vibrations” or the feeling that their phone is vibrating when it is not. This can cause a sense of anxiety and anticipation, leading to increased stress levels.
Additionally, the study found that people who use their phones frequently are more likely to experience stress when their phones are on silent mode. This is because they are more reliant on their phones for communication and social connections, and when they are not able to hear or feel their phones vibrating, they may feel disconnected and isolated.
Furthermore, the study found that people who use their phones for work are also more likely to experience stress when their phones are on silent mode. This is because they may miss important calls or messages related to their job, which can lead to feelings of anxiety and fear of missing out on important information.
The study’s findings suggest that people should be mindful of how they use their phones and the potential impact on their stress levels. Instead of putting their phones on silent mode, people may want to consider leaving their phones on ring or vibration mode and setting specific times of the day for phone use. This can help them to stay connected and aware of important calls or messages, while also reducing their stress levels.
It is also important for individuals to take breaks from their phone use, to engage in other activities, and to set boundaries for when and how they use their devices. Taking regular breaks from phone use, and setting aside specific times of the day to check messages, can help to reduce feelings of anxiety and disconnection. Furthermore, it is also important to establish a balance between work and leisure, and not to feel tethered to one’s device, as it can lead to overwork and burnout.
In conclusion, putting phone in silent mode may increase stress levels, as it can lead to feelings of anxiety and disconnection, especially for people who use their phones frequently for communication and social connections or for work. It is important for individuals to be mindful of how they use their phones and to establish a balance between phone use and other activities, to help reduce stress levels.
