Texting has become a ubiquitous form of communication in the modern world. It is quick, efficient, and often free – making it an ideal way to stay in touch with friends and family. However, there are some potential risks associated with texting, particularly when it comes to safety and health.
When driving, texting is one of the most dangerous activities a person can engage in. It is estimated that 23% of all car accidents are caused by distracted driving, and texting is a major contributor to this problem. In 2012, 3381 people were killed in crashes involving a distracted driver; of those deaths, 421 were attributed to cell phone use (including both talking and texting). If you must text while driving, pull over to a safe location first.
There are also some health concerns associated with extended periods of time spent looking at a screen (whether that be a computer screen, television screen, or phone screen). This can cause eye strain and headaches, as well as neck and back pain from poor posture. To reduce these risks, take breaks every 20 minutes or so to look away from your screen and stretch your body. And when using your phone specifically for text messaging, hold it at eye level so you don’t have to crane your neck down to read the message – this will help reduce neck pain.
If you follow these simple tips, texting can be a safe and enjoyable way to communicate with others.