Tag:

adults

Noida psychologist shares how constant screen time is causing ‘Popcorn Brain Syndrome’ in teenagers and young adults

by jummy84 November 2, 2025

written by jummy84

With screen time at an all-time high, many youngsters are constantly switching between apps, videos, and games. This digital overload is affecting focus, memory, and mental health. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Jaya Sukul, Clinical Psychologist and Founder of Headspace Healing, Noida, sheds light on the emerging “popcorn brain” syndrome and how it impacts young minds. (Also read: Psychiatrist shares how late-night scrolling, anxiety and stress are fueling a sleep crisis among Gen Z )

Dr Jaya Sukul explains ‘Popcorn Brain Syndrome’ and how to reclaim focus in a screen-filled world. (Freepik)

What is Popcorn Brain?

“Popcorn Brain isn’t your brain literally popping,” says Dr Sukul. “It’s the sensation of your neural circuits being overstimulated by constant digital inputs. You may find yourself jumping quickly from one thing to the next, struggling to focus, and feeling restless offline because life seems slower than your online feed.”

She explains that modern lifestyles, social media, and continuous digital exposure have reshaped brain activity. “Your brain craves novelty, and devices exploit this craving, keeping you in a state of hyper-alertness. Over time, this can drain your energy, increase stress, reduce focus, and even affect sleep,” Dr Sukul adds.

Dr Sukul highlights Popcorn Brain, a condition affecting focus and emotional well-being due to excessive screen time.(Unsplash)

Who is affected?

While Popcorn Brain is most commonly seen in teenagers and young adults, Dr Sukul warns it is also affecting people aged 30-45. “It’s not the same as internet addiction,” she clarifies. “Internet addiction is a clinical syndrome that disrupts work, relationships, and daily life. Popcorn Brain affects your quality of life, attention, and emotional well-being, but it doesn’t necessarily ruin relationships or career performance.”

Symptoms to watch for include:

Irritability and anxiety
Trouble sleeping
Difficulty focusing or paying attention
Feeling hyper-vigilant or stressed
Life offline feels dull or uninteresting

To address 'popcorn brain', Dr Sukul advises creating screen-free zones, taking breaks from devices, practising mindfulness, and consuming media intentionally.(Google Gemini) — To address ‘popcorn brain’, Dr Sukul advises creating screen-free zones, taking breaks from devices, practising mindfulness, and consuming media intentionally.(Google Gemini)

How to ease Popcorn Brain

Dr Sukul suggests several strategies to reclaim focus and peace of mind:

1. Create screen-free zones: Designate areas in your home where phones and devices aren’t allowed.

2. Schedule device breaks: Take intentional breaks from screens to reset your brain.

3. Practice mindfulness: Meditation, yoga, and breathing exercises can help improve focus and calm overstimulation.

4. Work in focused bursts: Short periods of concentration followed by breaks enhance productivity.

5. Be intentional with media consumption: Ask yourself, “Who is in control, me or my phone?”

6. Avoid mindless scrolling: Passive browsing actively overstimulates your brain and reinforces Popcorn Brain symptoms.

“By consciously managing digital consumption and including mindfulness practices, you can reclaim your attention, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being,” Dr Sukul concludes.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice.

November 2, 2025 0 comments

Lifestyle

Fortis orthopaedic surgeon shares 4 ways older adults can protect their shoulders: ‘Do low-impact activities such as…’

by jummy84 October 31, 2025

written by jummy84

With age, the bones grow old, and movements become challenging. The joints, in particular, are responsible for all the movements, both big and small. But as one grows old, the once easy motion may feel painful. Out of all the joints, there’s one joint that doesn’t get as much attention as the knee or hip joint.

The shoulder is one of the most affected joints among older adults. (Picture credit: Freepik)

ALSO READ: Orthopaedic surgeon shares 5 tips to protect spine if you have a desk job: Don’t sit cross-legged, get up every 45 min

Dr Manit Arora, orthopaedics and sports medicine surgeon at Fortis Hospital in Mohali, shared with HT Lifestyle that the shoulder joint is one of the most vulnerable joints.“The shoulder is one of the most mobile joints in the body, which makes it prone to wear and tear”, Dr Arora explained.

Movements become severely limited, reducing one’s ability to move independently. Even small tasks start to feel overwhelming. He added, “Ignoring the shoulder joint and its associated issues can make even simple tasks, like dressing, cooking, or reaching for objects, difficult.”

That’s why your shoulder joints require as much attention as your knee or hip joints. Including simple exercises that strengthen and stretch the shoulders can help improve flexibility, prevent stiffness and keep you independent as you grow older.

Dr Arora listed these 4 things older adults need to do, from which exercises they can incorporate in their routine to what they should avoid:

Improve your shoulder joints by adhering to these. (Picture credit: Made with Chat GPT )

1. Gentle stretches

During your daily walks, include gentle stretches and strengthening exercises, such as arm raises or resistance band pulls.
They can help keep your shoulders flexible and strong.

2. Watch posture

Maintain good posture while sitting and standing.
They prevent extra strain on the shoulder joints.

3. Stay active, safely

Do low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, or yoga.
They keep overall mobility intact while being gentle on the shoulders.

4. Avoid repetitive overhead movements

Lifting heavy objects or repeated overhead motions can increase the risk of injury.
Reorganise your home so daily necessities are within reach, or ask for help with heavier tasks.

Your shoulders take care of most of the upper body movements, from lifting to pulling. As the doctor revealed earlier that it is the most mobile; stiffness can show up in the shoulders. However, with a little daily care, from limiting certain types of movements or adding gentle exercises, you can safeguard your shoulder joints and prevent long-term pain and restricted mobility.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.

October 31, 2025 0 comments

Lifestyle

Medanta neurologist warns young adults in 20s are at big risk of severe burnout; reveals 6 early signs to watch out for

by jummy84 October 13, 2025

written by jummy84

At the cusp of adulthood, more and more young adults in their 20s are left with no energy. They are facing burnout, which is a state of chronic physical, mental and emotional exhaustion caused by prolonged exposure to stress. It is more than feeling tired. The exhaustion is far deeper and spans every part of life.

Young adults increasingly face the risk of burnout.(Picture credit: Freepik)

ALSO READ: Medanta cardiologist explains how poor gut health can increase your risk of heart disease: ‘Diets that support…’

To understand more about the early adulthood burnout, Dr Saurabh Mehrotra, Director of Neurosciences at Medanta, Gurugram, told HT Lifestyle that burnout is far beyond the ordinary tiredness but a ‘sustained state of stress’ which, if it is not treated, may have harmful repercussions on mental and physical health.

“Burnout, once considered a mid-career problem, is now increasingly affecting people in their early twenties. Many young adults are entering adulthood already feeling mentally drained, emotionally overwhelmed, and physically exhausted,” Dr Mehrotra added.

The neurologist cited findings from a May 2025 study published in The International Journal of Indian Psychology, which reported that Indian youth aged 18–32 experience moderate levels of burnout overall, but those in the younger age brackets (18–22 and 23–27) have significantly higher burnout scores compared to their older peers. Dr Mehrotra emphasised that this is a major crisis, as young adults are facing severe stress right at the beginning of their adult lives.

What are the causes of burnout?

Dr Mehrotra revealed that burnout in young adults happens because of a combination of many factors. The causes are relentless academic and career pressures, the mismatch between expectations and workplace realities, financial strain, constant digital connectivity, global uncertainty, social disconnection, and toxic work cultures with blurred boundaries.

With so much going on, Gen Z feels overstimulated as there is little room for rest or recovery. The pressures are often overlapping and continuous pressure, one after the other or even simultaneously. From competitive academics to early career hustle, young adults are stuck in a breakneck pace that triggers stress and makes them exhausted.

“For Gen Z, especially in countries like India, the collision of financial pressure, toxic work environments, digital overload, social isolation, and mismatched career expectations is creating an urgent mental health challenge,” the neurologist highlighted the major challenges.

While the signs of burnout may be subjective, there are some common, overlapping ones. Dr Mehrotra shared the 6 signs of burnout, along with 6 tips to help manage it:

6 signs of burnout

One of the signs includes a lack of motivation. (Picture credit: Pexels)

Persistent fatigue, even after rest
Difficulty concentrating
Irritability or mood swings
Loss of motivation or interest in activities
Sleep disturbances
Physical symptoms such as headaches or digestive issues

6 tips to prevent and manage burnout

Sleep is essential for good mental health. (Picture credit: Shutterstock)

1. Prioritise rest and recovery

Adequate sleep, ideally 7–9 hours a night, is essential.
Rest must be recognised as a non-negotiable component of productivity and health, not a luxury.

2. Set digital boundaries

Taking regular breaks from screens, limiting social media, and muting non-essential notifications.
This helps to reduce mental fatigue and reclaim attention.

3. Maintain physical health

Consistent exercise, nutritious meals, and hydration are directly linked to better focus, emotional regulation, and resilience under stress.

4. Build supportive relationships

Human connection is vital.
Whether it’s through friendships, mentorship, or family, emotionally supportive relationships act as a buffer against burnout and isolation.

5. Seek help early

Therapy or counselling provides tools to manage stress, build coping skills, and gain perspective.
Addressing burnout early can prevent more serious mental health conditions down the line.

6. Redefine success

Success should not be measured solely by productivity, income, or status.
It must also include mental well-being, personal growth, balance, and fulfilment. Moving away from hustle culture allows room for a healthier, more sustainable path.

October 13, 2025 0 comments

Celebrity News

Amazon Halloween Decor Finds for Adults Who Love Spooky Season

by jummy84 September 10, 2025

written by jummy84

We don’t know about you, but we’ve been in full-on spooky mode since September 1. With Halloween right around the corner, there’s no reason not to start decorating. Spooky season has officially arrived, and it’s time to get your home ready.

To make it easier than ever, we’ve rounded up the cutest and most affordable Halloween decor on the internet, with prices starting at just $5.

Whether you’re into subtle fall touches or bold, eerie vibes, there’s something for everyone. You’ll find pumpkin-scented candles, jack-o’-lantern-print throw blankets, skeleton-embroidered pillows, bat stick-ons, coffin message boards, and flameless flickering candles to set the perfect mood.

Whether you want cozy or creepy, we’ve got you covered. Halloween isn’t just for kids, and your home deserves to join in the fun too! Embrace the season, show off your spooky side, and shop these hauntingly good finds to transform your space ASAP.

Halloween Decor Bestsellers:

September 10, 2025 0 comments

Lifestyle

Doctor reveals 5 physiotherapy exercises for older adults: Chair squats, wall push-ups and more

by jummy84 September 7, 2025

written by jummy84

Published on: Sept 07, 2025 08:28 pm IST

Gentle physiotherapy exercises can help older adults maintain mobility and prevent falls. Know which all exercises are suitable.

Older adults, as they age, often face difficulty with mobility. This is where gentle physiotherapy exercises assist seniors in staying healthy and agile in their movements.
ALSO READ: Poor knee health in older adults: 5 exercises to improve joint strength

Older adults can stay healthy and resilient by embracing gentle exercises.(Shutterstock)

Dr Pothiraj Pitchai, professor and head of the department of physiotherapy at K J Somaiya College of Physiotherapy, shared with HT Lifestyle that regular exercises help in improving mobility, maintaining muscle strength. He said, “Ageing brings changes beyond grey hair; even our muscles, joints, and nerves lose strength, flexibility, and balance, raising fall risk and limiting independence. Regular, gentle physiotherapy exercises support safer, healthier ageing. With guidance from a physiotherapist, simple daily practice of safe exercise, seniors can enjoy the movement as a medicine to prevent falls.”

It is important to note that the exercises need to be fine-tuned to be gentler and suit their energy levels.

Here are 5 easy exercises Dr Pitchai listed:

1. Chair squats

How to do: Place the chair against the wall for stability. Stand up from the chair and then sit back down in a controlled manner. It improves lower-body strength.
Frequency: Do this for 10-15 repetitions, 2-3 sets per day, at least 3 times per week.
Precautions: Avoid using a low-level chair. Avoid it if you have severe lower-body joint pain.

2. Wall push-ups

How to do: Stand facing a wall, about an arm’s length away, place your hands on the wall at shoulder height, and perform push-ups. It improves upper-body strength.
Frequency: Do this for 10-15 repetitions, 2-3 sets per day, at least 3 times per week.
Precautions: Avoid if you have severe shoulder pain or any recent upper limb surgeries. Avoid breath-holding while doing push-ups.

3. Brisk walking

How to do: Walk at a speed that is faster than your usual walk but still comfortable enough to maintain a conversation. It improves cardiovascular health and joint mobility.
Frequency: 20-30 minutes per day, at least 5 times per week.
Precautions: Avoid uneven or slippery surfaces, wear comfortable footwear.

4. Heel-to-toe walk

How to do: Walk in a straight line, placing one foot directly in front of the other. It improves balance and coordination.
Frequency: 5–10 steps forward, repeat 2–3 rounds, at least 3 times per week.
Precautions: Take the support of a table or wall while walking. Avoid any severe balance problems or dizziness.

5. One-leg stand supported:

How to do: Take the support of a table or wall for support, lift one foot slightly off the ground, and hold for 10-15 seconds. Repeat on the other leg. It improves balance and stability.
Frequency:Repeat 2–3 times per side, at least 3–4 times per week.
Precautions: Avoid if you have an unsteady gait or severe balance issue.

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September 7, 2025 0 comments

Lifestyle

Oncologist says ‘don’t ignore mouth sores or patches’ as oral cancer rises in young adults; shares key prevention tips | Health

by jummy84 August 26, 2025

written by jummy84

Oral cancer is emerging as a significant public health concern in India, with thousands of new cases diagnosed each year. Factors like tobacco chewing, smoking, alcohol consumption, and certain lifestyle habits contribute heavily to its rising prevalence.

Early detection of oral cancer can boost survival rates to 90% amid rising incidence. (Jerussa Paredes)

“Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC) is a major health concern in India, accounting for 26% of cancers in men and 8% in women. Among these, oral cancer is the most common type, with a particularly high incidence in the northeastern regions, where cases reach 31.8 per 100,000 males. Population-based cancer registry data further suggest that the nationwide incidence can be as high as 20 per 100,000 population,” says Dr. Minish Jain, Director of Medical Oncology at Ruby Hall Clinic. (Also read: 25 year old with stage 4 cancer shares why he never eats 3 hours before sleep: ‘Your body needs rest, not digestion’ )

Dr. Minish further shared with HT Lifestyle key symptoms to watch for, emerging trends in oral cancer, and the importance of early detection to improve survival rates and outcomes.

Changing trends in oral cancer

Traditionally, oral cancer in India has been strongly linked to tobacco and alcohol use. However, a recent study in Kochi revealed that 57% of oral cancer cases were diagnosed in individuals with no history of tobacco or alcohol use, indicating an alarming shift in disease patterns.

The age-adjusted incidence of oral cancer is highly variable across India, depending on study design, population groups, and geographic locations. Incidence rates increase with age but tend to decline after the age of 70, a trend consistent across multiple studies.

Advanced-stage diagnosis remains the norm

A major challenge in oral cancer management is late detection. Data reveal that 48% of oral cancer cases present in stages III and IV, by which time treatment outcomes are poor. When diagnosed early, oral cancer has a 5-year survival rate of above 80%. However, this drops drastically to 20–30% in advanced stages, despite multimodal therapy.

Oral cancer in India is rising, with tobacco as the main cause.(Karolina Grabowska)

Symptoms to watch for

Common signs of oral cancer include:

Red or white patches inside the mouth
Ulcers or sores persisting beyond 14 days
A lump in the neck
Pain or bleeding in the mouth
Difficulty swallowing
Persistent throat or ear pain
Speech problems

Awareness of these early symptoms is crucial for timely intervention.

Key risk factors

Tobacco remains the leading cause, accounting for nearly 80% of oral cancers, especially in men over 40. Worryingly, the incidence among women and younger adults has been rising, driven by smokeless tobacco products such as betel quid, khaini, gutka, zarda, mawa, and kharra. These mixtures, often commercially sold in sachets, are socially accepted and widely consumed, sometimes even kept overnight in the mouth. Alcohol use in combination with tobacco further increases the risk. National surveys estimate that 57% of men and 11% of women (15–49 years) consume some form of tobacco, making this a public health crisis.

The emerging role of HPV

In recent years, Human Papilloma Virus (HPV-16) has emerged as a significant risk factor for oral and oropharyngeal cancers, particularly among individuals without tobacco exposure. Two decades ago, fewer than 10% of oral cancers were HPV-related; today, this number is steadily rising. Interestingly, HPV-positive oral cancers tend to respond better to treatment than tobacco-related cancers.

Challenges unique to India

The biology of oral cancer in Indian patients tends to be more aggressive compared to Western populations. Additional challenges include:

Nutritional deficiencies
Delayed diagnosis due to low awareness
Poor oral hygiene
Low socioeconomic status

Why early detection matters

Early detection not only increases survival chances from 50% to 90%, but also reduces the cost of treatment significantly. Unfortunately, most patients in India seek medical attention only at advanced stages due to a lack of awareness and sociocultural acceptance of tobacco chewing.

“Oral cancer continues to be a preventable yet deadly disease in India. Stronger public awareness campaigns, stricter regulation of smokeless tobacco, HPV vaccination programs, and improved access to screening can dramatically reduce the burden. With lifestyle changes and timely medical attention, this disease can be caught early, transforming outcomes for thousands of patients each year,” concludes Dr. Minish.

August 26, 2025 0 comments

Lifestyle

Geriatrician shares 4 tips for older adults to improve mental health: From solving puzzles to doing meditation | Health

by jummy84 August 23, 2025

written by jummy84

Updated on: Aug 23, 2025 08:09 pm IST

Mental health needs to be supported with healthy habits to ensure overall wellbeing in older adults.

Mental health is closely connected to physical health, with factors like the gut-brain axis making it even more prominent. On top of that, as one ages, mental wellness can decline due to stress from major life events, such as the death of a spouse, chronic illness or retirement. Along with this, old age also carries the natural risks of cognitive decline. All these make taking care of mental health during old age a non-negotiable priority.

Elderly people are recommended to socialise and exercise to keep their minds active.(Shutterstock)

ALSO READ: Well-rounded diet for older adults: 5 nutrients that improve muscle strength, gut balance and overall health

To address the concerns of old age mental wellness, Dr Prasun Chatterjee, Chief of Geriatric Medicine at Artemis Hospitals, shared with HT Lifestyle how to keep the mind healthy and resilient during old age.

He said, “Taking care of our mental health is just as important as taking care of our physical health as we get older. A healthy mind keeps older people independent, active, and happy. Small, regular efforts can make a big difference in helping seniors. Every stress kills some important memory cells, so managing stress in middle age and later life is very important for a healthy mind. ”

Here are 4 tips he shared for older adults for better mental health:

1. Stay mentally active:

Solve puzzles to keep your brain active.(Shutterstock)

Stay mentally active by reading, doing puzzles, playing memory games, or learning new things. This will keep your brain sharp.
Doing things that make your mind work can slow down cognitive decline and help your memory.

2. Maintain social connections:

Being alone and lonely can be bad for your mental health. Talk to family, friends, or community groups on a regular basis.
Being social makes you feel better, lowers anxiety, and helps keep you from getting depressed.

3. Put your physical health first:

Stay physically active with yoga and stretching exercises.(Shutterstock)

Eating well, getting enough sleep, and exercising regularly all have a direct effect on how your brain works.
Walking, doing yoga, or light strength training are all good for your brain because they increase blood flow to it. This helps with memory and thinking.

4. Practice mindfulness and relaxation:

This helps you clear your mind when you’re stressed or anxious.
Meditation, deep breathing, or gentle hobbies like gardening can help you relax, focus better, and feel better emotionally.

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August 23, 2025 0 comments