Technology is deeply intertwined with our daily lives, influencing various aspects of our wellbeing. While technological advancements offer many benefits, they also present challenges that can impact mental health both positively and negatively. Understanding this duality is crucial for harnessing technology's advantages while mitigating its potential drawbacks.

Here are the main 3 aspects to consider when it comes to technology and mental health:

1. The good: How can technology support mental health and wellbeing?

Increased Access to Mental Health Resources: Technology has enabled easier access to information and care. Online mental health platforms and mental health apps provide support to individuals who might otherwise face barriers to seeking help such as financial constraints, geographical limitations or mobility issues.

Teletherapy and Text-Based Therapy: Teletherapy and text-based therapy has successfully catered to personal preferences of some clients. It can also be more inclusive and more affordable. While teletherapy and chat-based counselling is not the right fit for everyone, this modality offers convenience and immediacy, allowing individuals to receive support without the constraints of scheduling or travel.

Mental Health Applications and Tools: A plethora of apps are designed to support mental wellbeing, offering features like mood tracking, meditation guides, and even cognitive behavioral therapy exercises. These tools may not be a direct replacement to personal therapy, but they empower users to manage their mental health proactively and can serve as supplementary aids alongside professional treatment.

2. The bad: What should you be mindful of to minimise negative impacts?

Social Media: While social media platforms facilitate connection, excessive use has been linked to mental health challenges. The curated nature of social media can create pressure to portray unrealistic picture-perfect life, leading to feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and depression.

Doomscrolling and Information Overload: The tendency to continuously consume negative news online, known as doomscrolling, can exacerbate feelings of anxiety and depression. A study highlighted in The Times found that compulsively reading negative online content creates a feedback loop that deteriorates mental health.

Blurring of Work-Life Boundaries: The constant connectivity enabled by technology can blur the lines between work and personal life, leading to burnout and increased stress levels. The pressure to remain available can make it harder for individuals to fully disengage from work-related responsibilities.

3. Balancing the good and bad: How can we use technology safely?

To enjoy the benefits of technology while safeguarding mental health, consider the following strategies:

Set Boundaries: Establish specific times for checking emails and social media to prevent constant connectivity. Designate screen-free periods during the day to engage in offline activities and foster real-world connections.

Curate Your Digital Environment: Be mindful of the content you consume. Unfollow accounts that trigger negative emotions and follow those that promote positivity, realistic ideas and wellbeing. Utilise tools that limit exposure to distressing news to reduce the impact of doomscrolling.

Use Mental Health Apps Wisely: Incorporate reputable mental health applications into your routine to support wellbeing. Apps offering meditation or mood tracking such as Headspace or Calm can be valuable tools when used consistently. However, they should complement, not replace, professional mental health care when needed.

Schedule Digital Detoxes: Regularly disconnect from digital devices to recharge. Engaging in activities like reading, exercising, or spending time in nature without the interference of technology can significantly boost mental health.

Seek Professional Help When Necessary: While technology can provide support, it is essential to recognise when professional intervention is required. Do not hesitate to seek help from mental health professionals if you experience persistent feelings of anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns.

Technology offers both valuable tools for support and potential sources of stress. By adopting mindful usage practices, it is possible to leverage the positive aspects of technology while mitigating its adverse effects, leading to a balanced and healthy relationship with the digital world.

If you're struggling with the impact of e.g. social media or excessive screen time on your mental health and wellbeing, please feel free to schedule a free initial Zoom chat with Alicja to find out how therapy can help you built a better relationship with technology.

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*The information provided in this blog post is for general educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical or mental health professional advice. If you are struggling with any of the issues described in this post, please seek appropriate personalised help from a qualified mental health professional.

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Sources:‍

Maslach, C. and Leiter, M.P. (2016) ‘Understanding the burnout experience: Recent research and its implications for psychiatry’, World Psychiatry, 15(2), pp. 103–111.

National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) (n.d.) Technology and the Future of Mental Health Treatment. Available at: https://www.nimh.nih.gov

Social media and mental health: Twenge, J.M., Haidt, J., and Campbell, W.K. (2020) ‘Social media use and mental health: The risks and benefits’, Current Directions in Psychological Science, 29(5), pp. 489–494.

The Times (n.d.) Doomscrolling and its Impact on Mental Health. Available at: https://www.thetimes.co.uk