Disconnect to Connect

Our world is becoming increasingly more technology driven, causing us to turn to screens of various types, often out of necessity. Apps such as Snapchat, Instagram, and TikTok, in addition to video games, television, and texting, have become a regular part of our days. Schools have become more dependent upon technology with assignments posted, and often completed online, with some schools even transitioning completely to online textbooks. We read much of our news online, do research for homework or work online and, when the work is done, often turn back to our screens for relaxation. While there are certainly benefits to these interactions, there are also drawbacks.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Screen Time

Some of the benefits of screen time include providing a welcome form of distraction and a break from responsibilities and/or stress. Social media apps and video games can also provide a form of connection, allowing easy communication outside of school or work. But, while social media can, at times, help people connect, it can also negatively impact individuals, particularly pre-teens and teens, as they view the “highlight reels” of their peers’ lives, which may lead to comparisons and unfair self-criticism. Technology even gives the ability to know the whereabouts of their peers at all times through the use of apps such as Snapchat or Life360. “Fear of Missing Out” can become a reality as they can see, in real time, when they are actually missing out on any given event.

Endless hours looking at our phones, computers, iPads, and televisions has the potential to prevent us from truly being present and experiencing our lives in the moment. This can ultimately leave us feeling less connected. In addition, while we may turn to our screens to unwind at the end of a long day, studies have shown that screen time within a few hours of bedtime can disrupt our circadian rhythms, thereby disrupting both the quantity and quality of our sleep. Beginning the next day fatigued can contribute to a cycle of additional screen time.

Recommendations

Below are some highlights from the American Psychological Association’s Health Advisory on Social Media Use in Adolescence Recommendations:

• Monitor use for adolescents (10-14) to the extent possible.

• Routinely screen for signs of “problematic use” that can impair the ability to engage in daily life routines.

• Limit use that interferes with sleep and physical activity.

• Limit use that encourages social comparison, particularly around beauty or appearance-related content.

What can you do?

One thing is clear – technology is here to stay. So, what can we do?  Technology is not bad in and of itself. But it might be helpful to approach the use of it more mindfully, being intentional with its use. We can take a closer look at our habits and determine ways in which we feel it is positively contributing to our lives as well as ways in which it may be detracting. For parents, keeping the conversation around technology use going and being aware of the forms of social media your children are using and the ways in which they may be affecting them could be beneficial. And, for all of us, it might be refreshing at times to just step back, away from our screens, and join in with what is happening around us in the present moment. In other words, disconnect to more fully connect.

How The Mind Spot Can Help

The Mind Spot can work with your teen or young adult when technology becomes a problem or addiction. Make an appointment with Rosalyn deTranaltes or one of our counselors today. Meet Our Counselors