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Technology is a critical component of our world today. From communication and time management to manufacturing and healthcare, tech tools have an enormous impact on our lives. There’s always a tradeoff, of course, and sometimes it feels like our technology is taking over our lives.
There is no question that we’re more connected than ever before, which means that most of our family, friends, coworkers, and loved ones are just a text, call, email, or video chat away. As difficult as being apart, for any reason, can be, we can still talk in real time with those who matter most. That also means we don’t have to relinquish many of our routines, no matter what else is going on in the world. Technology allows us to keep working, communicating, going to school, shopping, going to doctor or therapy appointments, playing games, and staying aware of current events.
And it allows us to do so with even more ease: Google’s product suite, for instance, can help you write, format, present, calculate, collaborate, remind, and share all from one platform alone. The resources available today have made it possible to easily learn, share, and create in a truly global environment.
The benefits of technology are genuinely incredible, but there can be too much of a good thing. Our hyperconnectivity means we may have difficulty disconnecting or creating space to unwind. That can lead to feelings of stress or exhaustion and make it harder to truly relax when we need that rest. If you could be working, studying, or catching up all the time, how do you know when to stop? Creating boundaries and promoting mindfulness are critical for giving ourselves the space and time our mental health deserves.
It’s also important to be aware of the potential physical consequences from 24/7 connectivity. Eyestrain, hand or wrist pain, and sleep deprivation are common symptoms when spending so much time on our devices or in front of screens. Text neck, Blackberry thumb, and other overuse injuries are becoming increasingly more prevalent, which means it is critical to give your body a break and invest in your long-term health – particularly if you’re spending time on screens for work, entertainment, and school.
Unfortunately, there are even more severe risks out there when so much of our time is spent in virtual spaces. The sense of anonymity we have online, or of feeling slightly removed from the situation when behind a keyboard, can lead to saying things we wouldn’t ordinarily say in a face-to-face situation. Coupled with the ability to share information in record time, this can quickly create uncomfortable and even dangerous situations. It’s important to give yourself mindful space away from virtual environments (and time to process painful feelings when they arise).
The spread of misinformation or outright lies, the prevalence of bullying and cyber attacks, and other unpleasantries are all common side effects of our cyberspace – and they can lead to anxiety, depression, addiction, and other mental health disorders. Social media alone has had a dramatic impact on feelings of self-worth, success, and inclusion and belonging, and those feelings carry into our real worlds. Be cautious about what you consume and avoid taking every piece of information you see at face value.
Technology is not considered to be inherently good or bad. Instead, its value depends on how it is used. But there have been modern studies that do show the negative effects of technology on the body and mind. While physical issues have arisen due to excessive use of computers and screens, technology has led us to many significant breakthroughs. To continue on the path to progress, it’s important to learn to live with technology in a healthy way.
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