The Full Spectrum of Health Risks Associated with Modern Technology
Our lives are undeniably intertwined with technology. From smartphones and laptops to smartwatches and social media, these innovations offer convenience, connection, and endless information.
Fortune reports that internet users aged 16 to 64 spend roughly seven hours every day online. This translates to around 47 hours per week and 101 days per year. As per these stats, someone who lives to be 80 will spend more than 17 years of their adult life on the internet.
However, this constant connectivity comes at a cost. Modern technology poses a range of health risks, impacting our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. In this article, we’ll take a look at these potential downsides, exploring how our tech habits can negatively affect us.
Social Media and Mental Health
Social media platforms offer a constant stream of connection, but this very feature can be detrimental to mental health. The idealized lives depicted on curated social media feeds can foster feelings of inadequacy and prompt social comparisons.
Striving to uphold an online image can result in anxiety and depression. Additionally, the fear of missing out (FOMO) and the addictive nature of these platforms can disturb sleep patterns, further affecting mental health.
According to Verywell Family, when teenagers find out that their peers are having fun without them, 60% of them get concerned. Furthermore, when teenagers don’t know what their friends are doing, 51% of them report feeling anxious. This demonstrates the profound effect that social dynamics have on the mental health of teenagers.
Lawsuits Against the Negative Impact of Social Media
The fact that social media seriously harms your mental health has not gone unnoticed. Lawsuits are emerging from individuals and families who claim that social media platforms prioritize addictive features and algorithms over user well-being.
TruLaw states that these lawsuits allege that the constant barrage of unrealistic portrayals and social comparisons fuels anxiety, depression, and feelings of inadequacy.
In a recent development reported by the Lawsuit Information Center in June 2024, a Kentucky family is suing multiple social media platforms. The family alleges that their daughter’s usage of Instagram, Snapchat, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube has resulted in her facing serious mental health difficulties.
The now-17-year-old girl allegedly developed bulimia, anorexia, binge eating, anxiety, depression, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts. The complaint claims that the addictive properties of these platforms have seriously impacted her well-being.
How Wearables Impact Our Health
Wearable technology like smartwatches and fitness trackers offer valuable health insights, but their constant presence can have unintended consequences. The pressure to meet unrealistic activity goals or the anxiety of a constantly buzzing notification can be counterproductive.
It is projected that 225 million smartwatch users will exist globally by the end of 2024, and that this figure will rise over time. According to Statista, it is expected that the worldwide smartwatch business will bring in close to $50 billion in 2024. This suggests that there is a significant and ongoing need for smartwatches.
Some wearables emit blue light, further disrupting sleep patterns. Using wearable technology mindfully and focusing on using the data for positive health changes rather than chasing arbitrary goals can help mitigate these risks.
Setting realistic goals based on individual needs and seeking professional guidance for personalized fitness plans can also be beneficial.
Eye Strain and Body Pain
Our reliance on computers for work and entertainment often leads to poor posture and repetitive strain. Sitting for extended periods contributes to a variety of physical health problems, including obesity, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. It can also lead to musculoskeletal issues like neck pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, and eye strain.
WebMD notes that computer vision syndrome (CVS) refers to eye disorders associated with computer use. This illness includes a variety of ocular strain and discomfort symptoms. According to research, Between 50% and 90% of individuals who spend significant time working on a computer screen experience symptoms of CVS.
To deal with these adverse effects, it is beneficial to take regular breaks, maintain proper ergonomics, and incorporate movement into your daily routine. Investing in ergonomic furniture and setting up workstations for proper posture can further prevent these issues.
FAQs
How does social media affect the brain?
Social media can activate the brain’s reward centers by releasing dopamine, making it addictive. It can also impact attention spans, leading to decreased ability to focus. Moreover, constant exposure to curated images can affect self-esteem and mental health.
What is the negative impact of wearable technology?
Wearable technology can cause privacy concerns due to data tracking. Extended use may lead to physical discomfort or strain, such as wrist pain. Over-reliance on health monitoring features can also result in increased anxiety about one’s health.
How do you treat computer eye strain?
To treat computer eye strain, practice the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Ensure proper lighting and reduce screen glare. Use artificial tears to keep eyes moist and take regular breaks from screen time.
Modern technology offers a double-edged sword. While it connects us and improves our understanding of health, it can also be detrimental. Social media can trigger anxiety and unrealistic expectations, while wearables and constant screen time can lead to physical discomfort and disrupted sleep.
Finding a balance and adopting technology with mindfulness by concentrating on real-world relationships, individual health objectives, and ergonomic habits is critical. This approach also maximizes the benefits that technology offers.
