Effect of Bedtime Mobile Phone Scrolling on Sleep Latency and Dream Recall among Paramedical Students

Background: Excessive use of mobile phones before bedtime has emerged as a growing concern among young adults, particularly students, due to its potential impact on sleep quality and circadian rhythm. Exposure to screen-based light and cognitive stimulation during the pre-sleep period may delay sleep onset and alter sleep-related experiences such as dream recall.

Objectives: To assess the effect of bedtime mobile phone use on sleep latency, dream recall, and subjective sleep quality among paramedical students.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 180 paramedical students aged 18–25 years. Data were collected using a structured, pre-tested questionnaire adapted from validated sleep assessment tools. Information regarding mobile phone usage patterns, sleep latency, dream recall, and perceived sleep quality was obtained. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests to determine associations.

Results: A majority of participants (78%) reported using mobile phones within 30 minutes before sleep. Prolonged sleep latency (>30 minutes) was significantly more common among pre bedtime phone users compared to non-users (44% vs. 16%; p < 0.01). Participants who used mobile phones before bedtime also reported higher frequency of dream recall and poorer subjective sleep quality. Only 14% of phone users reported feeling refreshed on waking compared to 38% of non-users.

Conclusion: Bedtime mobile phone use is significantly associated with delayed sleep onset, increased dream recall, and poorer sleep quality among paramedical students. Promoting healthy digital habits and limiting screen exposure before sleep may improve sleep outcomes and overall well-being in this population.