Technology has made our lives incredibly convenient. We can shop, order food, watch a movie, and grab a ride simply with a few taps. But the everchanging digital landscape is also a breeding ground for health problems – whether physical, mental or social.
This begs the question: can we really have a healthy relationship with technology?
Technology is designed to be addictive.
Social media and the internet are great examples of this. Personalised algorithms are made to keep us glued to our screens, and the content we engage with stimulates the reward centres of our brain, creating an addictive ‘positive feedback loop’1.
The concept of technology addiction is a relatively new field of study, but its impacts on our health have been stacking up over the past few years – particularly during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, where many of us were confined to our homes. Studies have shown that technology addiction and increased technology engagement are linked to disturbed sleep patterns, an inability to manage time, decreased energy, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, feelings of loneliness and more2.
Despite the impact to our health, technology is very much ingrained into our lives so here are three ways to build a healthier relationship with technology and set positive examples for future generations.
1. Limit your screen time
Whether it’s your smartphone, TV or laptop, it’s important to limit your screen time to help your mind disconnect from your devices – this goes double if you occasionally work from home.
If you’re finding it difficult to unplug, consider making a schedule for yourself. For example, only using technology between 9am and 6pm. Most mobile devices also have this option built in to limit your screen time.
When you set boundaries for your technology, you’ll find that you’ve got more time for your body and mind to recharge, which can also lead to having more time to spend with your loved ones.
2. Aim to achieve a balanced lifestyle
It’s important not to let technology dominate your life. It’s a great idea to step away from the screens and get active every few hours – whether that’s through a workout at the end of the day, or simply a few static stretches at your desk. And if you’ve only got a few minutes to spare, why not try a micro workout?
Technology addiction can sometimes take a toll on our relationships too. Even if you’re regularly texting your friends online, make sure to spend some time in real life with them – you’ll be surprised how much good a yarn over a cup of coffee can be for you.
3. Be a role model for your kids
If you’re a parent, it’s important to remember that our kids pick up on our behaviour – including our relationship with technology.
If you have young children, it can be a good idea to monitor your kids’ technology use and monitor how long they spend on their devices. Parental controls on limiting screen time and content are great tools to have as options too.
If your kids are a little older, learn more about their interests and negotiate screen time with them. Even better, join them if they’re watching a TV series or playing a video game – you might learn something new about them (and yourself) too3!
Take small steps to start thriving
Getting out of the house is a great way to separate yourself from the screens – it's also an easy way for AIA Vitality members to earn AIA Vitality Points that count toward your weekly Active Rewards.
Whether you go for a quick walk around the block or a short bike ride, our physical health plays a huge part in our holistic wellbeing. Even if Netflix is calling, any effort you make still counts towards a healthier you.
Footnotes:
- https://sites.brown.edu/publichealthjournal/2021/12/13/tiktok/#:~:text=Dopamine%20release%20is%20a%20key%20part%20of%20the,to%20the%20website%20or%20app%20in%20the%20future.
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9179985/
- https://raisingchildren.net.au/grown-ups/family-life/media-technology/family-technology-use#2-get-to-know-your-child-as-a-technology-user-nav-title
