We are all hooked to our devices; from our phones to our laptops, screens have become ubiquitous. While some people resort to screens for work and other practicalities, however, most of us have no such compunctions.
Screens more often serve as access to social media, or as a source of entertainment. However, it is important to realize and recognize the influence of these digital devices as well.
Dangers of the digital world
Stress
For people working on the internet, digital devices present as a source of stress. It also makes it possible for the workplace to reach people at any and every time. Workaholics are enabled due to their digital devices as well. Moreover, some people also feel stressed when they are without their devices, compounding the problem.
Addiction
Social media addiction is also real. Rather than living in the moment, people have unhealthy relationships with social media. Moreover, experts also believe addiction to the digital device can cause psychological and social problems, that then need to be addressed by a therapist via oladoc.com.
FOMO- Fear of missing out
Social media has also propagated the feelings of FOMO. Since people document every moment of their lives, looking at it may make others feel as if they do not have interesting lives.
Moreover, it may make them feel bad to see others invited to events, and then being left out. This can also then contribute to people becoming sad, depressed, and discontent.
Unfortunately, the lives on social media belie reality and are curated to carry the impression of perfection. However, people viewing might neglect to take this into account and endanger their mental health then.
Disrupted sleep
The use of devices also contributes towards disrupted sleep. Digital devices emit blue light, that then signals the body into wakefulness. Their use, especially in the latter half of the day, and just before the bed, wreaks havoc on sleep.
Lack of proper sleep leads to problems with mental and physical health. Furthermore, use of social media just before bedtime is especially bad for the health; scrolling through the feed increases the likelihood of anxiety, insomnia and it also impairs the quality of sleep.
Mental health issues
Extensive use of digital devices has been associated with mental health concerns, especially amongst adolescents. Problems that can be caused due to excessive use of devices include ADHD, conduct problems, self-regulation, etc.
Signs its time for digital device
Anxiety after using phone
If looking at your phone gives you anxiety, and makes you feel stressed, then it’s a sign that you need a digital detox.
Checking phone
Perpetually checking phone, being obsessed with the likes and comments on your phone, being conscious about not checking your phone often enough are also signs that you are addicted to your device, and you need a detox.
Not putting it down
If you see yourself not being able to put your phone down, even when your body is craving sleep, then it is a sign that you need to get away from your device.
Doing a digital detox
Set limit
It is pertinent that you set a usage limit on your device. While going cold turkey on all digital devices might not be possible, you can, however, moderate your intake.
Set off the notifications
Your notification ping from the phone may serve as a constant distraction. It may make it harder for you to get separated from your phone. You should then turn off all notifications from all social media apps.
Delete the apps
Delete all the apps that you end up wasting your time over. Most of the social media apps come in this category.
Addiction needs treatment
If you suffer from addiction to social media or digital devices, then it might be harder for you to go on a detox. You should therefore consult your Psychiatrist in Islamabad for help with regulating digital device usage.
