Technology has transformed our society for the better in many ways. We now have more information at our fingertips than ever before, can communicate with people from all over the world, enjoy sights and experiences we would never be able to have in real life and keep in touch with our loved ones no matter where we are. There are very few areas in society not affected by technology, but, unfortunately, not all its impact has been positive. Our mental and physical health can be affected if we are not careful about how much technology we allow to enter our daily routine. This guide explores how everyday technology can be a source of stress.
Our everyday lives are being examined
Sharing our lives on social media can be positive, but when all our actions are out there to be examined and picked apart by others, it can lead to conflict and damaged reputations. While it is important that we debate difficult issues and voice our opinions, having our thoughts and actions attacked by people with no connection to us can be stressful and upsetting. We must be conscious about how we present ourselves on social media and how it could affect you now and in the future. In addition, comparing our everyday lives with the highlights and heavily filtered content shared by others can be damaging to our self-esteem.
We can retreat from human interaction
The technology we have at home can make it too easy to stay at home and prevent us from interacting with humans face-to-face. From working and shopping for groceries to socializing and watching movies, we can do just about everything without seeing the light of day. Without some sunlight and human contact, we can suffer psychologically from depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions.
Playing video games is another activity we can do at home, but the jury is still out on whether playing video games can cause stress. Visit this website for more on the link between stress and video games.
Blue light can interfere with our sleep
Devices like tablets and smartphones emit blue light, which is similar to the light given off by the sun. This makes the brain feel that it is daytime and can make it more difficult to fall asleep. Using technology too late in the evening can interfere with your circadian rhythm, leading to a poor sleep routine, which can damage both your physical and mental health.
Many people cannot switch off from work
A lot of people can now access their work communications at home using their cell phones or other devices, and while this can be convenient, it also makes it difficult to switch off. It means people are always contactable, replying to emails, or working on projects in the middle of the night in order to catch up or get ahead. This can lead to continued anxiety and stress.
Internet use can be addictive
There are lots of research studies that have found a clear link between using social media and poor self-esteem, but that does not stop people from logging on. There is a phenomenon known as ‘FOMO’ or fear of missing out, and it can mean people feel compelled to keep checking social media, even when they are busy with friends, family, or at work. In addition to social media, online shopping, and online gambling, can become such regular habits that some people can start to exhibit addictive behavior. Also, playing video games can be addictive especially to younger people who almost always have a means of playing them such as through their phones, laptops, and handheld consoles.
