Julija Markeliūnė, Head of Digital Inclusion at Telia, explains what leads to such a state and offers advice on how to avoid it.
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A 2026 study commissioned by Samsung and conducted by Nordstat revealed that the majority, even 8 out of 10 Lithuanians, use their phones not only for communication but also for work.
Most often, people check their work email on their phones, with 36% doing so, and almost two-thirds – 64% – use various other apps daily for work tasks. The study also showed that Lithuanians stand out among other Baltic countries’ residents as the most active multitaskers and clearly express the need for more advanced productivity solutions on mobile devices. About 58% of Lithuanians would prefer not only smoother transitions between apps but also the ability to perform more complex tasks on their phones.
This further complicates people’s relationship with the digital space – a Telia study conducted just last year showed that already 96% of people start their morning by checking their phone, and 90% do so before going to sleep. Experts point out that such a daily routine leads to digital burnout – a state of chronic fatigue caused by constant presence in the virtual space.
“Smartphones have already become an indispensable work tool, and user expectations in this regard are growing even faster. On one hand, this growing desire to be productive is something to be happy about; on the other hand, it increases the risk of exhaustion from constant exposure to information noise,” says Julija Markeliūnė, Head of Digital Inclusion at Telia.
Simple steps to help rest from screens
Suspicions of digital fatigue may arise when it becomes difficult to concentrate, a person feels emotionally drained and physically exhausted even when actually resting, notes J. Markeliūnė.
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“When various Teams, Outlook, Instagram, Facebook notifications keep flooding all day long, the nervous system is constantly in a heightened state of alertness. This can be very tiring, so it might be worth considering certain withdrawal strategies,” points out J. Markeliūnė.
Although it can be difficult to rest from technology during work, setting boundaries between reality and the virtual space is healthy. The expert gave some advice to help maintain a balance between screens and rest.
First, define screen-free zones and times. For example, at the dining table, during meetings, or in the evening before sleep. It is recommended to avoid using phones and computers and watching TV for at least 30–60 minutes before bedtime.
Turn off unnecessary notifications and schedule specific times to check emails and messages, and while working, don’t forget to rest your eyes – every 20 minutes, look at an object in the distance for at least 20 seconds. Move regularly and take breaks; at least once an hour, stand up and walk, for example, to get a drink of water.
“Consciously choose activities outside the digital space: read paper books, write notes by hand, exercise, spend time in nature. At least once a week, it is worth planning a few hours or even a whole day without social networks and unnecessary devices to regain concentration and energy,” recommends J. Markeliūnė.
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