Technology has made our lives incredibly convenient. We can shop, order food and grab a ride simply with a few taps, but the everchanging digital landscape is also a breeding ground for health problems – whether physical, mental or social.
Can we really have a healthy relationship with technology?
Article
10 June 2023
4 min read
4 min read
We’re experiencing an epoch where we’re more connected with technology than ever. While seemingly a step towards a better quality of life, the pitfalls along the way are plentiful. The question begs: can we really have a healthy relationship with technology?
Technology is designed to be addictive
Social media and the internet are great examples of this. Personalised algorithms are made to glue us to our screens, and the content we view stimulates the reward centres of our brains, creating an addictive feedback loop1.
The concept of technology addiction is a relatively new field of study, but its impacts on our health have been stacking up over the past few years – particularly during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, where many of us were confined to our homes. Studies have shown that technology addiction and increased technology engagement are linked to disturbed sleep patterns, an inability to manage time, decreased energy, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, feelings of loneliness and more2.
But even as it seems like a bleak future ahead, there are ways we can cope, and how we can be positive examples to future generations.
Limit your screen time
Whether it’s your smartphone, TV or laptop, it’s important to limit your screen time to help your mind disconnect from your devices – this goes double if you occasionally work from home.
If you’re finding it difficult to unplug, consider making a schedule for yourself; for example, only using technology between 9 am and 6 pm. Most mobile devices also have this option inbuilt to limit your screen time.
When you set boundaries for your technology, you’ll find that you’ve got more time for your body and mind to recharge, and you’ll have more time to spend with your loved ones.
Aim to achieve a balanced lifestyle
It’s important not to let technology dominate your life. It’s a great idea to step away from the screens and get active every few hours – whether that’s through a workout at the end of the day, or simply a few static stretches at your desk. And if you’ve only got a few minutes to spare, why not try a micro workout?
Technology addiction can sometimes take a toll on our relationships too. Even if you’re regularly texting your friends online, make sure to spend some time in real life with them – you’ll be surprised how much good a yarn over a cup of coffee can be for you.
All or Something
Getting out of the house is a great way to separate yourself from the screens – it's also an easy way to earn yourself up to 100 AIA Vitality Points that count toward your weekly Active Benefit.
All: Go for a quick jog around the block.
Something: Jog halfway, then walk home.
Our physical health plays a huge part in our holistic wellbeing. Even if the covers are calling, any effort you make still counts towards a healthier you. Remember, All or Something!
Be a role model for your kids
If you’re a parent, it’s important to remember that our kids pick up on all our behaviour - including our relationship with technology.
If you have young children, it can be a good idea to monitor your kids’ technology use and monitor how long they spend on their devices. Parental controls on limiting screen time and content are great tools to have as options too.
If your kids are a little older, learn more about their interests and negotiate screen time with them. Even better, join them if they’re watching a TV series or playing a video game – you might learn something new about them (and yourself) too3!
*Footnotes:
1 http://1.https//childmind.org/article/is-internet-addiction-real/
2 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9179985?/
3 https://raisingchildren.net.au/grown-ups/family-life/media-technology/family-technology-use#2-get-to-know-your-child-as-a-technology-user-nav-title
1 http://1.https//childmind.org/article/is-internet-addiction-real/
2 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9179985?/
3 https://raisingchildren.net.au/grown-ups/family-life/media-technology/family-technology-use#2-get-to-know-your-child-as-a-technology-user-nav-title
Staff writers come from a range of backgrounds including health, wellbeing, music, tech, culture and the arts. They spend their time researching the latest data and trends in the health market to deliver up-to-date information, helping everyday Australians live healthier lives. This is general information only and is not intended as medical, health, nutritional or other advice. You should obtain professional advice from a medical or health practitioner in relation to your own personal circumstances. The information in this article is general information only and is not intended as medical, health, nutritional or other advice. You should obtain professional advice from a medical or health practitioner in relation to your own personal circumstances.
Disclaimer:
Copyright © 2023 AIA Australia Limited (ABN 79 004 837 861 AFSL 230043). This is general information only, without taking into account factors like the objectives, financial situation, needs or personal circumstances of any individual and is not intended to be financial, legal, tax, medical, nutritional, health, fitness or other advice. The source information of the articles is current as at 14 March 2023 and may be subject to change. While the information contained herein is believed to be accurate, AIA Australia expressly disclaims any and all liability for representations or warranties, expressed or implied, contained in, or for omissions from, the information.
Copyright © 2023 AIA Australia Limited (ABN 79 004 837 861 AFSL 230043). This is general information only, without taking into account factors like the objectives, financial situation, needs or personal circumstances of any individual and is not intended to be financial, legal, tax, medical, nutritional, health, fitness or other advice. The source information of the articles is current as at 14 March 2023 and may be subject to change. While the information contained herein is believed to be accurate, AIA Australia expressly disclaims any and all liability for representations or warranties, expressed or implied, contained in, or for omissions from, the information.
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