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The effects of unmanaged stress are showing up more frequently in younger populations due to modern lifestyle patterns and digital dependence
Chronic stress, excessive screen time, and poor sleep are increasingly affecting young adults’ brain health, but simple lifestyle changes can make a powerful difference, says Dr. Malla Devi Vinaya.
In today’s fast-paced world, chronic stress is becoming a silent disruptor of brain health, especially among young adults. According to Dr. Malla Devi Vinaya, General Physician at Apollo Clinic, Kondapur, the effects of unmanaged stress are showing up more frequently in younger populations due to modern lifestyle patterns and digital dependence.
How Stress Affects Brain Health:
Cognitive Dysfunction: Prolonged stress can impair attention span, memory retention, and decision-making abilities.
Migraines: Frequent migraines, often stress-induced, significantly affect daily functioning and quality of life.
Digital Overload: Increased screen time leads to eye strain, headaches, reduced attention span, and mental fatigue—now commonly seen in young professionals and students.
Why Young Adults Are More Vulnerable:
Lifestyle Factors: Juggling education, demanding careers, and social obligations often leads to unhealthy levels of stress and poor work-life balance.
Excessive Screen Exposure: From work to entertainment, digital screens dominate the daily routine.
Sleep Deprivation: Irregular schedules and prolonged screen use can interfere with restful sleep, further compounding stress.
Preventive Measures to Protect Brain Health:
Dr. Vinaya recommends the following steps to manage and reduce stress-related health concerns:
Practice Stress Management: Engage in yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises to calm the nervous system.
Exercise Regularly: Physical activity boosts endorphins and supports mental clarity.
Establish Healthy Sleep Habits: Aim for 6–8 hours of undisturbed sleep each night.
Minimize Screen Time: Take frequent breaks and set digital boundaries.
Maintain a Balanced Lifestyle: Prioritize nutrition, hydration, and downtime.
Try Cognitive Training: Incorporate puzzles, brain games, or reading to sharpen mental function.
Seek Medical Attention When Needed: Don’t ignore persistent symptoms like fatigue, migraines, or poor concentration.
“By making these simple yet effective lifestyle changes, young adults can protect their mental well-being and build resilience against stress-related health issues,” says Dr. Malla Devi Vinaya.

Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl…Read More
Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl… Read More
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