Doomscrolling, digital addiction, and the constant buzz of screens - how do we find balance in a hyperconnected world?

In this episode of ConnectForHealth - a podcast partnership between mentl in and Cigna Healthcare Middle East & Africa - host Scott Armstrong, founder of mentl, and co-host Maissa Al Khafajy, Head of Government Affairs and Strategic Communications at Cigna Healthcare, are joined by Dr. Thoraiya Kanafani, Clinical Psychologist at Human Relations Institute and Clinics Dubai.

Together, they explore the hidden ways our relationship with technology is shaping our health. Too much screen time is often dismissed as just an “eye strain” problem, but the effects are far deeper: changes in posture, breathing patterns, digestion, and of course, mental health, from anxiety and low mood to social withdrawal.

This conversation is not about demonising technology, but about recognising its full-body and psychological impact, so we can set healthier boundaries. Dr. Kanafani shares insights from her clinical experience, while Scott and Maissa bring perspectives from workplace culture and corporate well-being.

Whether you’re a parent worried about your child’s screen use, a professional who spends hours behind a screen, or simply someone glued to your phone, this episode will give you practical strategies for building a healthier digital relationship.

⏱️ Chapter List

• 00:00 – Welcome to ConnectForHealth
  Scott introduces the series, produced by mentl in partnership with Cigna Healthcare.
• 02:10 – Introducing Dr. Thoraiya Kanafani
  Clinical insights from one of Dubai’s leading psychologists.
• 04:00 – Just How Big Is the Problem?
  Scott asks: how much do we all need to disconnect?
• 08:20 – More Than Eye Strain
  Dr. Kanafani explains how prolonged device use impacts posture, breathing, digestion, and mental health.
• 13:45 – Doomscrolling and Anxiety
  The psychological toll of endless scrolling and how it feeds low mood and withdrawal.
• 19:30 – What Patients Are Showing Up With
  Clinical patterns and behaviours linked to digital overuse.
• 24:15 – Recognising Digital Addiction
  How to spot the signs in yourself, loved ones, or colleagues.
• 30:00 – Building Digital Boundaries
  Practical tips to reduce screen overload without rejecting technology completely.
• 36:10 – The Workplace Dimension
  Why mindful tech use matters for productivity, collaboration, and well-being at work.
• 41:30 – Key Takeaways
  Scott, Maissa, and Dr. Kanafani reflect on healthier habits and the path toward mindful tech use.