“It is not the bruises on the body that hurt. It is the wounds of the heart and the scars on the mind” – an inspirational quote by Aisha Mirza. It suggests that emotions and mental health play a monumental role in our daily lives. A gash could be left inside your friend or family member’s mind and you may not be able to realize it. Mental health comprises of a person’s emotions, inner self and social well-being.
THE GEN Z
During the lockdown, there was a change in the way everything was perceived. The world progressed virtually with everything available only one click away. However, for Generation Z, there wasn’t a drastic transition as technological innovations had already surfaced the world by the time they were born. The world of smartphones, laptops, computers, internet and 4g are not new terms for them.
BENEFITS OF DEVICES FOR OUR MENTAL HEALTH
After scientists carried out a research and collated their results, they found out that the number of internet users in January 2022 was 660 million! The increasing use of technology has proved to be beneficial in many ways for mental health. The provision of virtual therapy and online support groups has improved the confidence and motivation levels in patients. A study showed that 53% clients who were counselled online had reduced their intensity of depression.
Moreover, the availability of mental health apps has allowed convenience, reduced costs, a 24/7 service even for people inhabiting in inaccessible areas and greater privacy of client’s information. Additionally, due to the higher reach on social media, awareness is being built about mental health and the likes, shares and comments on the posts never end.
DRAWBACKS OF DEVICES FOR OUR MENTAL HEALTH
However, digital media also has its downsides to mental health. Four hours of leisure time on our gadgets leads to damaging physical health, affecting our eye-sight and disturbing sleep patterns. Without enough quality sleep, your behavior the next day gets affected. In addition, technology is a source of distraction for everyone. It causes concentration issues, interrupting our work schedule.
Furthermore, youth has considered social media a medium of comparison between individuals. How many followers, likes, positive comments, opinions or shares a post receives has become more important than the person’s personality. Teenagers require the approval of the world. Without this, it has a huge impact on their self-identity and self-esteem. Cyberbullying also has a severe influence on mental health. The victim gets distressed and it is always encouraged to be empathetic and present for them.
CONCLUSION
Is technology using us? You know the honest answer for this question. It is essential to maintain a balance between mental health and technology because digital media has been increasing its control on its users. Screen time should be limited and you can engage yourself in various activities that couldn’t be possible while you were using your phone. Establishing real relationships with the people around you, communicating with them and living in the present is significant as no laptop or computer can replace emotions. Use technology beneficially and always remember to glance at the world, not your phone. The digital world is just an illusion.
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