Psychology says keeping your phone on silent isn't a communication preference - it's a nervous system preference, and the people who need it most are often the ones who spent years being on-call for everyone else's emergencies - Silicon Canals

"Cortisol spikes from constant alerts can mimic danger, even when no real threat is present. Every ping, buzz, and ring triggers the same stress response in your body as if you were facing actual danger."

"Our nervous systems have been running on high alert for so long that they've forgotten how to relax. The thought of turning the ringer back on made my chest tighten."

Many individuals keep their phones on silent to protect their nervous systems from the stress caused by constant notifications. This behavior often develops gradually, starting during work hours and extending to all times. The body retains memories of stress responses triggered by alerts, which can mimic real danger. Psychologist Ian MacRae notes that cortisol spikes from these alerts can create a false sense of threat, leading to heightened anxiety and a need for silence to regain calmness.

Read at Silicon Canals