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Are you often unable to switch off in the evening? Perhaps you then always have your smartphone within reach and answer work messages even after work. This can lead to constant stress and excessive demands.
In the modern world, digitalization is omnipresent and affects almost every aspect of our lives. While technology brings many benefits, it also has a significant impact on our mental health. In this blog post, we look at how digitalization affects our well-being and what we can do to minimize the negative effects.
Constant availability and stress
One of the biggest problems that digitalization brings with it is constant accessibility. Smartphones and other mobile devices make it possible to be available anytime and anywhere. This can lead to increased stress levels as the boundary between work and leisure becomes blurred. Many people feel under pressure to respond to emails and messages outside of working hours, which leads to constant tension.
Social media and self-esteem
Social media is another important aspect of digitalization that influences our mental health. Platforms such as Instagram, Facebook and TikTok offer the opportunity to be constantly connected with other people and follow their lives. However, this can also have negative effects, particularly on self-esteem. Constant comparison with the supposedly perfect lives of others can lead to feelings of inadequacy and dissatisfaction.
Sleep disorders caused by digital devices
The use of digital devices, especially before bedtime, can lead to sleep disorders. The blue light from screens disrupts the production of the sleep hormone melatonin and can affect the sleep-wake cycle. This leads to problems falling asleep and a reduced quality of sleep, which has a negative impact on mental health.
Tips for minimizing negative effects
A few simple measures can be taken to minimize the negative effects of digitalization on mental health:
- Digital time-outs: Make a conscious effort to plan times when you don’t use digital devices in order to relax and unwind.
- Sleep hygiene: Avoid using screens for at least an hour before bedtime. Create a sleep-promoting environment by keeping your bedroom dark and quiet.
- Set boundaries: Define clear boundaries between work and leisure time, for example by not reading work emails after work.
- Conscious use of social media: Reduce the time you spend on social media and focus on content that has a positive influence on you.
- Realistic comparisons: Remember that the life shown on social media often only reflects the highlights and not the whole reality.
