Trapped in Tech: The Mental Impact of Digital Dependency
In our modern lives, digital technologies play an incredibly important role, becoming an integral part of our daily existence. We can’t imagine our lives without smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other devices that provide us access to a myriad of information and entertainment. We browse news on social media, watch movies and series online, chat with friends on messengers, and much more.
However, behind all these benefits lies a hidden danger — digital dependency. Many people suffer from it, becoming so absorbed in the virtual world that it begins to affect their mental well-being and social relationships. The desire for constant online presence and the search for satisfaction in virtual experiences can lead to serious problems, such as social isolation, depression, anxiety, and even sleep disturbances.
About 60% of the world’s population uses digital technologies. This number is constantly growing as technologies become more accessible and widely available worldwide.
What is digital dependency?
Digital dependency is a state where we become overly reliant on the use of digital technologies such as smartphones, tablets, computers, and the internet. We spend too much time on social media, play online games, read news, and watch videos. As a result, we may feel that we have lost control over our time and attention.
How do we experience digital dependency?
If you constantly feel the need to check your phone, even if there are no new notifications, or spend hours on your computer playing games or browsing content online, this may be a sign of digital dependency. Other signs include feeling anxious or irritable when you can’t use your devices, and a sense of wasting time or worrying about missing out on opportunities online.
How does it affect our brains?
When we use digital technologies, our brains experience pleasure from new experiences and information. This happens because our reward centers are activated, releasing the neurotransmitter dopamine, which is associated with pleasure and reward. However, over time, we need more and more stimulation to feel the same pleasure. This can lead to stagnation in the brain and a deterioration in our ability to control our behavior.
Overcoming Digital Dependency
If you or someone close to you is struggling with digital dependency, it’s important to take steps to overcome it and restore a healthy balance in the use of digital technologies. Here are some recommendations:
Awareness of the problem: The first step in overcoming dependency is acknowledging its presence. Try to realize how much digital technologies affect your life and your well-being.
Setting boundaries: Define the time you are willing to spend online and using digital devices, and stick to that schedule. Set rules for the use of technologies in your family and adhere to them.
Regular breaks: Allocate time for breaks from digital devices. Spend time outdoors, engage in physical activity, read books, or pursue hobbies that are not related to technology.
Active life in the real world: Dedicate time for meetings with friends and family, sports, hobbies, and other real-life activities. This will not only diversify your life but also strengthen your relationships and well-being.
Practice meditation and relaxation: Learn meditation and relaxation techniques that will help you cope with stress and anxiety without using digital devices. Regular meditation can help you find inner peace and balance in your life.
With the GooseBumps app, achieving tranquility and relaxation is easier and more effective. It offers meditations that assist in dealing with stress and anxiety, as well as delving deeper into oneself and one’s desires!
Every person is unique, and the approach to overcoming digital dependency may be individualized. The most important thing is awareness of the problem and willingness to take steps to solve it.
