Is Your Stress Digital? How Screen Time Affects Health
Let’s face it, technology has become an essential part of everyday life for many Filipinos. It’s common to see people from different walks of life hooked on their digital devices, such as smartphones, tablets, computers, or smart TVs. From corporate employees attending online meetings to students in virtual classes, and even balut vendors accepting e-wallet payments, technology is now part of everyday living. With the constant use of technology, Filipinos are exposed to a continuous stream of sensory information that can overwhelm the mind.
What is Digital Stress
Digital Stress is a modern form of stress caused by excessive use of digital technology. It can develop from long hours of screen time and the constant need to stay connected. The endless flow of information can overwhelm the mind and increase stress levels.
What are the Causes of Digital Overload
Digital stress can develop from everyday habits like spending long hours on gadgets without enough time to rest or disconnect. Being online for extended periods can leave the mind feeling drained and exhausted.
What are the Symptoms of Digital Stress
Common symptoms of digital stress include irritability, aggressive behavior, mental fatigue, poor concentration, sleep problems, and anxiety. Physical symptoms may include headache, eye strain, neck pain, stomach ache, and high blood pressure.
When to Seek Professional Help
If digital overload is causing anxiety, disturbing your sleep, and giving rise to physical symptoms, it might help to seek professional help. Visit the Care Center Clinic, a primary healthcare provider Philippines, to manage the physical symptoms. The clinic also has a line of psychologists who can help you address emotional and behavioral issues and build habits to improve your digital well-being.
How to Combat Digital Stress
Here are simple things you can do to protect yourself and your family from digital overload. These easy digital detox approaches can help fight digital stress.
- Set a time limit on gadget use. Create healthy boundaries when using your device by setting an alarm, for example, after 30 minutes, to help you pause and rest your eyes.
- Engage in offline activities. Do more than just put down your device. You can go take a stroll, read a book, try a new craft, play a board game with your family, or try cooking a new recipe.
- Schedule screen-free time. Choose a certain time each day or night to put down your gadgets. You can activate your device’s “do not disturb” function so you can enjoy analog activities without getting interrupted.
- Create a tech-free area. Aside from setting tech-free times, you can also designate certain spaces in your home where devices are not allowed to help reduce screen time. For example, you can make it a family rule to keep phones away from the dining table so everyone can enjoy meals and conversations without distractions. It might also be a good idea to keep gadgets out of the bedroom to reduce nighttime distractions and help your mind and body prepare for sleep.
- Manage your notifications. According to Psychology Today, app notifications, including social media, are designed to grab your attention and urge you to look at your device. The notification sound can distract you from what you’re doing and disrupt cognitive performance. Turning off unnecessary notifications can help improve digital well-being and boost productivity.
- Designate a time for online activities. Avoid checking your favorite social media and news sites throughout the day by scheduling them once or twice a day. This scheduling system can prevent digital overload and improve productivity.
Bottomline
Technology has become a constant part of our daily lives, but too much screen time can lead to digital stress, affecting both mental and physical health. Building healthy digital habits, such as taking breaks, limiting screen time, and engaging in offline activities, can help you maintain a balanced life. If digital overload starts affecting your daily routine, mood, sleep, and physical health, it may also be a good idea to seek professional advice.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. What is digital overload?
Digital overload occurs when excessive screen time begins to affect an individual’s mental and physical well-being.
2. How can I reduce screen time?
You can reduce screen time by setting gadget time limits, creating tech-free areas, turning off notifications, and scheduling breaks away from devices.
3. Can too much gadget use affect sleep?
Yes. Blue light and mental stimulation can affect sleep quality.
4. Why is it important to take breaks from online activities?
Taking breaks from online activities can help reduce digital overload and give your mind time to rest.
5. When should I consult a doctor about digital stress?
If digital stress begins to affect your sleep, mood, or physical health, it may be helpful to consult a healthcare professional.