Reducing daily television viewing, even by as little as one hour, may significantly lower the risk of developing major depressive disorder, according to a new study. The protective effect appears particularly pronounced in individuals in their 40s, with researchers finding that replacing screen time with other activities—especially physical exercise—offers the greatest benefit.
As many as 15.6% of French adults aged 18 to 79 experienced a major depressive episode in the past 12 months, according to a 2024 report from Santé publique France. The prevalence is even higher among young adults, affecting around 22% of those aged 18-29. However, the new research, published in European Psychiatry, highlights a readily achievable lifestyle adjustment that could help mitigate these risks: decreasing daily television consumption by just one hour.
The study, led by Rosa Palazuelos-González of the University of Groningen in the Netherlands, tracked the lifestyle habits and mental health of 65,454 adults who were initially free from depression over a four-year period. The findings suggest a clear link between reduced screen time and improved mental well-being.
“We found that reducing television viewing by 60 minutes and dedicating that time to other activities moderated the probability of developing major depression by 11%,” explained Palazuelos-González in a press statement. “For reallocations of 90 and 120 minutes, this decrease in probability reached 25.91%.”
The Midlife Advantage
The beneficial impact of reducing screen time was most noticeable among individuals in their 40s. In this age group, substituting one hour of daily television with alternative activities lowered the risk of depression by 18.78%. Increasing that reduction to 90 minutes brought the risk down by 29% and eliminating two hours of television viewing resulted in a 43% reduction in risk.
Older adults and young adults experienced less benefit from reducing screen time alone. Among seniors, engaging in sports was the only activity demonstrably linked to a measurable difference. “Replacing 30 minutes of television with sport reduced the probability of depression from 1.01% to 0.71%. With 60 minutes, the risk fell to 0.63%, and with 90 minutes, to 0.56%,” the study authors noted.
Beyond the Couch: What Activities Help?
The research indicated that almost any activity replacing television was associated with a decreased risk of depression, with one notable exception: housework. “Replacing only 30 minutes of television with household chores did not lead to a significant change,” the researchers found.
Physical activity emerged as the most impactful alternative. Devoting just 30 minutes less to screens and instead engaging in exercise reduced the risk of depression by 18% across all age groups. Sleep followed, with a 9% reduction in risk, while leisure activities and transportation contributed to an 8% decrease. On average, the French population spends 4 hours and 14 minutes per day watching television, including live programs, replays, and on-demand videos in 2025, underscoring the potential for positive change through mindful screen time reduction.
This study reinforces the growing body of evidence linking lifestyle factors to mental health. While the precise mechanisms are still being investigated, reducing sedentary behavior and prioritizing activities that promote physical and mental stimulation appear to be key components of a preventative strategy against depression.
As research continues to illuminate the complex interplay between lifestyle and mental well-being, prioritizing a balanced approach to screen time and incorporating regular physical activity into daily routines may offer a simple yet powerful pathway to improved mental health for individuals of all ages.
What small changes can you make today to reduce your screen time and prioritize activities that nourish your mental and physical health? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Disclaimer: This article provides informational content and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
