From step counts and sleep scores to heart rate alerts and daily streaks, wearable devices and wellness apps have become part of everyday life. But when does healthy tracking become an unhealthy obsession?

In this episode, host Jahnavi, a senior digital content creator with TOI, speaks with Dr Naveen Chandra GS, interventional cardiologist, and Neha Cadabam, mental health expert, both from Bengaluru, about the growing phenomenon of health app burnout. They explain why so many people become fixated on numbers, how wearables can trigger unnecessary anxiety, and where these devices genuinely improve healthcare.

The conversation also explores the psychology behind streaks and dopamine, why smart watches can sometimes do more harm than good, and practical ways to use technology without letting it take over your well-being.

Don’t tune out before listening to the nutrition power tip by nutritionist Sangeetha Aiyer (https://www.rewriteyourstory.in/).

Chapters

00:00 – Introduction: Are Health Apps Making Us Healthier?

01:45 – Are We Tracking Too Much?

04:16 – The Psychology of Streaks, Guilt & Notifications

06:21 – When Wearables Trigger Health Anxiety

10:03 – Who Is Most Vulnerable to Overtracking?

11:49 – Why Wellness Apps Become Exhausting

16:04 – What Health Metrics Actually Matter?

21:02 – Finding a Healthy Balance with Technology

23:12 – Rapid Fire: Health Tech Myths & Habits

25:19 – Closing Thoughts & Takeaways