Today, technology has become an integral part of our lives. Smartphones, computers, tablets and other digital devices are indispensable tools of daily life. However, such intensive use of technology can also bring some negative effects. Studies show that anxiety levels increase with the increase in the time spent with technology. In this article, we will examine the relationship between increased technology use and anxiety and what can be done to overcome this problem.
The Relationship Between Technology Use and Anxiety
Increased time spent with technology can lead to increased levels of anxiety, especially among young people and adults. There are several reasons for this situation:
Social Media and Comparison:
Social media platforms are places where users share the best moments of their lives. This increases the tendency of individuals to compare their lives with others. Constantly seeing the “perfect” lives of others can increase anxiety by feeding feelings of inadequacy and worthlessness.
Information Pollution and Excessive Information:
Although the Internet provides easy access to information, it also causes information pollution. False or misleading information makes it difficult for individuals to access accurate information, which leads to uncertainty and anxiety. In addition, exposure to a constant flow of information can cause mental fatigue and increased anxiety.
Cyberbullying:
Cyberbullying, which is especially common among young people, is one of the negative consequences of technology use. Individuals exposed to cyberbullying may experience high levels of anxiety, depression and even trauma.
FOMO (Fear of Missing Out):
FOMO, known as “fear of missing out”, occurs with the desire to follow constant updates on social media and other digital platforms. This situation increases anxiety by causing individuals to feel the need to be constantly online and share every moment.
Sleep Disorders:
Spending a long time in front of the screen can negatively affect sleep patterns. Blue light prevents the secretion of the hormone melatonin, making it difficult to fall asleep. Insufficient sleep increases anxiety and stress levels.
Solution Suggestions to Reduce Anxiety
Some strategies can be adopted to reduce anxiety caused by technology use:
Limiting Technology Use:
Limiting the use of technology for certain periods of time can be effective in reducing anxiety. For example, limiting daily social media use to a certain time or staying away from technology on certain days of the week can be useful.
Digital Detox:
Doing a digital detox at certain intervals positively affects mental health. During this time, staying away from digital devices, taking nature walks, reading books or engaging in activities such as meditation can reduce anxiety.
Physical Activity:
Regular physical activity is an effective method to reduce stress and anxiety. Exercise improves mood and reduces anxiety by increasing the secretion of the hormone endorphin.
Social Support:
Face-to-face time with family and friends is more effective than virtual relationships built through social media. Real social ties increase emotional support and reduce anxiety.
Avoiding Information Pollution:
In order to avoid information pollution on the Internet, care should be taken to obtain information from reliable sources. Accurate and reliable information helps to control anxiety by reducing the feeling of uncertainty.
Dealing with FOMO:
To cope with the “fear of missing out”, it is important to get rid of the need to be online at all times. Limiting social media use and focusing on real-life experiences can reduce FOMO.
Conclusion
Increased technology use can increase individuals’ anxiety levels, which can negatively affect mental health. Factors such as social media, information pollution, cyberbullying, FOMO and sleep disorders provide important clues about how technology use can increase anxiety. To reduce these negative effects, strategies such as limiting technology use, digital detox, increasing physical activity and strengthening social support systems should be adopted. Thus, it may be possible to maintain a healthier and more balanced life by protecting from the negative effects of technology use.
