The Impact of Technology on Mental Health

Technology is a huge part of our daily lives. Even if we are disciplined with how much time we spend on our phones, technology is everywhere and it’s hard to escape it. We know there are pros and cons to technology and one significant impact is on our mental health. We know from research, and I know from many of my clients, that technology, specifically social media, can have a negative impact on our mental health. This blog post explores the various ways technology affects our mental well-being and offers tips for navigating the digital age mindfully.

Let’s start with the positive! We live in an age where information is at our fingertips. There are so many resources that are way more accessible than ever before. This gives individuals to seek out the information they need to help them understand their own mental health struggles, seek professional help, and even access mental health apps. Some apps offer features like meditation, mood tracking, and cognitive behavioral therapy exercises. It gives individuals a convenient tool for managing stress, anxiety, and other mental health issues. While social media can come with a negative connotation, there are many positives to it such as connecting with friends and family, even across long distances. They can provide a sense of community and support. 

Now with the negative impact on mental health. While we have information at our fingertips, there is an overwhelming amount of information from various sources, making it difficult to ascertain what is a reliable source. The pressure to stay updated keeps people in a constant state of stress and anxiety. Social media also contributes to those feelings by creating the feeling of inadequacy and low self esteem. Comparison steals joy and makes you think you have to live up to a certain standard. We tend to compare our daily life to others based on an often idealized portrayal of someone else's life that leads to a negative self perception and depression. This can also lead to cyberbullying and online harassment. Because of the anonymity of the internet people take to their keyboards and post comments that are negatively impacting others with no accountability. With the amount of time most people spend on technology, it’s no surprise that sleep is impacted as it’s causing more stress and anxiety, which makes it difficult for individuals to get good sleep. 

While the negative side is discouraging to hear, there are many strategies to keep technology a positive aspect of your life. The first one is to set clear boundaries for use. Set a timer for how long to be on social media. Designate specific times to check emails or get updates on the news. Think about creating a technology free zone in your home, where there is no technology allowed in that room to ensure a healthy balance between being online and offline. Another way to do that is to practice taking a break from technology on a regular basis. Take time to reconnect with the physical world by being in nature, having coffee with a friend, and any other activities that don’t involve screens. Be mindful of how you are spending your time on screens and become more aware of how it’s impacting your relationships. 

Technology is a double-edged sword when it comes to mental health. While it offers valuable tools and connections, it can also contribute to stress, anxiety, and other mental health issues. By being mindful of our technology use and implementing healthy habits, we can harness its benefits while minimizing its negative impact. Navigating the digital age with awareness and intention can lead to a healthier, more balanced relationship with technology.