Living in a digitalized world couldn't get better, as things turn easy and accessible almost to everyone. However, going digital and embracing this innovative change in almost every aspect of our life, has made things sometimes turn for the worse. And so it might be fair to call this a double-edged sword that has been doing more damage than good lately. With consequences affecting social life, physical health, mental-related diseases, attitude problems, addiction, and the list goes on. To make use of these technological and digital advancements, we should be able to avoid such drawbacks by knowing what they are first. Let's check some out.
1. Less social life- The time people spend using digital technologies has gone up in flames, tearing people more apart than bringing them closer. Everyone is busy checking their e-mails, social media, and phone calls; so much that this becomes a substitution to face-to-face communication and real-life conversation. We see the number of introverts rising as more people shut themselves in their homes. Offline relationships no longer relate to online ones; as it's easier to wear masks online pretending to be something that you're not in real-life.
2. More physical pain- One of the most common problems people pay the price for nowadays is eye-related issues. With the increasing demand for jobs that require constant use of computers, tablets, or phones; eyestrain has become more real than ever. Even kids are seen wearing glasses from such a young age, due to the early and constant use of digital-based technologies. Even a simple thing like your body posture is being ruined. This leads to much worse diseases connected to neck and back problems; like "text neck". Studies show that even the circadian rhythm can be affected due to the blue light coming out of those screens.
3. Psychological influence- The after-math technology has created is taking a toll on so many brains. Problems like depression, anxiety, and cyber-bullying are finding their ways easier than ever through these digital platforms. This gives so much room for toxic comments and harassment behind the screens. Not to mention that the constant showcase of false body images, is leading to more food disorders like anorexia and bulimia. This is all due to the excessive care about comments, likes, and views at the expense of mental health and real body image.
4. Addiction- "FOMO", or Fear of missing out is causing many of us to be led by online behaviors even if it doesn't make sense. One would feel anxious if they're behind a trend that's happening, always trying their best to keep up with everything even when it's not needed. In addition to that, is online gaming too. And this one is pretty serious as it's becoming a thing among kids, teenagers, and adults. This constant urge of wanting to be glued to whatever it is that you're using creates a feeling similar to that of substances that drug addicts use to escape reality.
5. Time-consuming- This shift towards the digital world is eating up what's left of energy in us. So much time is being wasted doing trifle things that add nothing to our lives. It also keeps us away from doing physical activities and exercises. This could lead to obesity, laziness, and depression. As studies show a solid connection between a short walk and positive hormones like Dopamine, Endorphins, and Serotonin. The over-use of technology in children could affect their academic performance, weight, concentration, sleep, aggressiveness, and so much more.
The digital revolution helped shape many of the things we're living on and getting by today. Made the impossible possible by saving more in time and money. However, the misuse of this tool has led to disasters ranging from simple ones that could be tweaked and fixed to much bigger ones like creating wars with others and within one's self. Now that you have read this, you should have a slight idea about the cons hiding behind the overly known pros we all hear of and practice. If you still find yourself interested in learning more about people's real-life experience follow their stories. Remember, it's never too late to flip the cup over and make a change in your habits.
Written By - Dana Asnan
Edited By - Vaibhav Sharma
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