You know the person: They take their smartphone out at the beginning of a meal and check every few minutes for new emails, likes or retweets. Do you spend more time looking at your device than chatting to your date? There is nothing more annoying than not having the attention of the person in front of you, especially in a one on one situation.
Social networking is now the most popular online activity, ahead of sending emails, searching the Internet or playing games. People connect all the time, everywhere, and more and more people own devices that allow this. Are you heading towards digital burnout?
Technology is a great thing, but what we don’t realize is the effect that technology can have on your health.
Using a laptop, cell phone or iPad late at night can seriously mess up your sleeping pattern, potentially leaving you with a sleeping disorder. A Swedish study found that participants, who feel the need to have their cell phones constantly accessible, were more likely to report depressive mental health symptoms. Studies suggest that the amount of time technology abusers check their gadgets are just enough to trigger the addiction-oriented parts of our brains. Your brain never gets the chance to unwind and is in stress mode 24/7. Social media has led to new pressure, sharing every experience leads to FOMO (Fear of Missing Out). Excessive use of technology can lead to feelings of isolation and inhibit connection with other human beings. With the ascent of the Internet and technology use, rudeness and incivility on social media sites has increased. We are constantly plugged into what everyone else is doing, all the time! But what we see is everyone’s glamour shots and compared to your own average moments could lead to feelings of insecurity. Social media could leave you full of anxiety about everything. Fear that your life is not “pinteresting” enough. You are anxious about not being crafty enough or cute enough or smart enough after using Pinterest.
Most of us don’t have the luxury of disconnecting from the internet, particularly communication professionals whose work depends more and more on it. However there are various things you can do to combat digital burnout:
Disconnect once a week
Pick a day of the week where you can focus your attention 100% on “real life”. Shut off all computers, tablets and if you are courageous enough, your cell phone. Give your brain a chance to reset. Stimulation can be exhausting. Do something physical!
Limit social media
Only access it on a predetermined time every day.
Establish etiquette and rules
E.g. No electronic devices in the bedroom, ban smart phones from dinner.
Stop multitasking
When trying to complete a task, shut down all forms of entertainment, close your email, and put your cell phone on vibrate. This way your brain will stay focused on something for longer.
Be more mindful of the time that you spend using technology. If you have longer conversations with Siri than you do with real people, it’s probably time to put the phone down. Make sure that there is a balance - enjoy the benefits of technology without becoming a mindless zombie.
Source: www.pbs.org, phys.org, fluxtrends.co.za, insidetec.monster.com, roogirl.com, www.dosomething.org
DISCLAIMER: The information on this website is for educational purposes only, and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms or need health advice, please consult a healthcare professional.
