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How Binge Watching Negatively Affects Your Grades

How Binge Watching Negatively Affects Your Grades
There is no question that the internet is a student’s most important tool. Without it, we would be forced to sift through hundreds of index cards, in search of a single useful book. 

But let’s be honest, the internet is also a source of distraction and procrastination. Part of those distractions include binge watching your favourite series for hours on end. 

Follow along as we discuss the harmful effects of binge watching on your mind and your grades. 

1. Sleep Deprivation
Binge watching on any streaming platform is an exhausting experience. The comedies, the thrillers and the action-packed shows and movies all have a visceral impact on our bodies. They all  leave us not only craving for more, but also exhausted from the emotional roller-coaster. 

There is no question that the excitement of a captivating story line, along with the constant blue light exposure, can make us toss and turn all night long. It is clear that all of this over-stimulation affects how our body produces melatonin. 

These factors all lead to serious sleep deprivation which have health consequences beyond that of dark circles around our eyes. Check out our article on How Sleep Contributes to Academic Success!

2. Time Management
University requires you to study/read at least 1 and a half hours per class time in order to meet the demands of each course. A typical student will take 4 to 5 classes per semester, which translates to 18 to 20 hours of homework a week. 

While these numbers might seem staggering, maintaining balance is still very important. We encourage you to continue to spend time relaxing and emotionally investing yourself into the lives of fictional characters, but please strive for moderation.

3. Blurring the Lines between Leisure and Work Time
It has become remarkably easy to fall off track from your work when online distractions are so easy to come by! Many students blend their study periods with leisure by keeping distractions opened and merely one click away. 

We are all guilty of breaking up our study time with a couple of episodes of our favourite shows. While this seems harmless, you are actively confusing your brain into thinking work time is rest time. 

4. Study Space vs a Restful Space
Psychologists agree that the bed must be a dedicated resting space. Once again, we are confusing our body and mind by taking our screens into the bed with us. If you absolutely cannot wait to see the next episode, steam a warm glass of milk and cuddle up on the couch. 

5. Isolation
University students spend enough time isolated, lost in a sea of notes and books, and staring down empty coffee cups. There is no reason why that on a day off from your routine should include further screen time. 

Rain or shine get out of the house and enjoy what the real world has to offer. You may not come across a coffee shop like the fictional Central Perk, but you can surely find a quirky spot to enjoy a cup of java with some good friends and maybe, just maybe make some new ones too.

Here at Wize, we want you to strive for a healthy work/play balance. 

Please continue enjoying what Hollywood has to offer, but don’t forget about what really matters.