How Limiting Technology Can Improve Mental Health
By Genevieve Cunningham
Technology is a wonderful advancement of our modern world that we all enjoy. We love having instant access to family and friends. We love being able to find information in a matter of seconds. But with all of the benefits that technology brings into our world, it also brings plenty of harm. And recent research suggests that some of the most damaging harm of technology use is to our mental health. But maybe it's possible to turn that around. If you're guilty of using technology too much, take a look at how it can harm your health -- plus some tips for improvement.
Technology Can Lead to Isolation
While technology can bring us together, especially for those separated by long distances, it also has a way of isolating us. We can be in the same room with 20 other people, but everyone has their head in a pone. We don't talk or laugh or experience life with each other. We experience it with our device. And long-term isolation leads to the deterioration of our mental health. If this sounds a bit too familiar, it may be time to put the phone down.
Technology Can Blur Reality
Technology shows us parts of life that are more for show and less reality. That perfect body? Photoshop. That nice house? It's been staged for the picture. When we look at these false realities over and over again, it blurs the line between fake and real. And it can make us feel inadequate. If you put down the technology and take a look around, you'll probably find that your life is pretty good -- and it can put those Instagram posts into true perspective.
Social Media is Likely the Real Culprit
It's important to remember that technology can also be good. It can make things easier and more streamlined. And as it turns out, the real threat to mental health is probably social media. Social media is where the inadequacies and comparisons happen. It's where our mental health really declines. If you want to use technology, just try cutting back on social media, and your mental health may improve.
Tips for Using Less
If you want to use less technology, try these tips for cutting back:
Delete - Delete at least one of your social media profiles. Over time, delete some more. Getting rid of social media -- or at least some of it -- can free you from stress and improve overall mental well-being.
Put it away - Set some limits for yourself. Don't look at your phone after 9 p.m. Don't open your phone before 9 a.m. Whatever limits you need to set, do it. The benefits will shortly follow.
Get help - Sometimes technology becomes a true addiction. If you need help, ask. Ask a friend, a parent, or a mental health professional. Your long-term wellness may depend on your ability to get help.
Technology isn't all bad. The key is to use it responsibly. Use these tips to cut back, use some self-restraint, and make responsible us a part of your life. With the right approach to technology, you can gain a lot of benefits without harming your mental health in the future.
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