Since the early 2000s, technology has turned into something that we incorporate into our everyday life. We have smart watches, phones, tablets, computers, digital menus, touchless pay, glasses that are able to read for the blind, and so much more. We went from using computers with floppy disks to having a touch screen computer that is capable of anything. For some of us, technology has truly changed the world for the better. However, older generations argue that it has completely ruined future generations. How exactly is technology good for us? How can we use it to improve our overall wellness? And on the contrary, how is it bad for us?
The Benefits
Within the last two years, the use of technology has brought us together like never before. Online learning for both kids and adults, remote work, zoom meetings, FaceTiming and Skyping relatives and friends, online shopping, virtual relationships, the explosion of TikTok and more. Without technology during the pandemic, learning and social structure would be uncertain for many of us.
Technology in itself provided us with a security blanket on how to go through the pandemic. Technology provided those who needed therapy through a Zoom call and work at home with kids when the schools shut down. It provided a combination of comfort to know that things were only a click away. It has also provided us with unlimited access to learning, sharing, and building and marketing our own businesses. Social media can bring people together to donate to or support a cause they may otherwise not know about. In short, technology has opened endless possibilities.
The Downside
Although technology has its benefits, it can also do a lot of harm to our wellness. One of the main issues that we can have with technology is the pressure to stay up to date with it. To have the best phone, laptop, gaming systems, car systems, Bluetooth headphones, the list goes on. Technology is a huge money maker and it becomes more and more expensive to be able to participate in certain technologies.
Not only that, but the amount of time that we spend can start to affect our mental health. SWNS Digital reported: “Research polling 2,000 adults in the U.S. found more than 6,259 hours a year are spent glued to gadgets such as phones, laptops and televisions. Which equates to an astonishing 382,652 hours and 48 minutes over the average adult lifetime of 60.7 years.”
Not only is that a lot of time but it can be a lot of wasted time. It can be mindless scrolling, social media use that isn’t beneficial for us, or dealing with harassment or bullying. Another downfall that can happen with technology is bullying. As much as technology can benefit our wellness, it can also hinder it.
The Takeaway
Technology is what I like to call a beautiful disaster. As much as it undeniably benefits us, it can equally harm our wellness if we overuse it—just like everything in the world. We can say the same thing about fast food, alcohol, and the use of social media. However, technology has become a necessity to be a part of a functioning society.
