What Are Positive Effects of Technology on Mental Health?

Smart use of technology can be good for your mental wellness. While we often hear warnings about tech use, like “Facebook fatigue” for negative feelings about social media or “digital eye strain” from too much screen time. However, wise use of technology can offer many benefits and has the potential to enhance well-being.

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5 Ways that Technology Can Boost Your Mental Health –

1. Technology connects us with others:

• Technology has enabled us to communicate quickly and affordably with those nearby and in far-flung locales.
• Technology gives us an easy avenue to come together with others to share interests, have meaningful exchanges, maintain relationships, problem-solve, and offer information, which can strengthen our mental wellness by helping us feel a sense of community and support.

While connecting via technology is not a substitute for in-person relationships, it can be a valuable tool for meaningful interpersonal connections.

• Concerns have arisen about social isolation due to increased Internet use, but with the mindful use of technology, you can stay connected virtually when physical disconnection is a reality, and those connections can support your mental well-being.
• Always-on connection can be overwhelming, but conscious digital connectedness can help us, as social beings, relate to others, which can give us a great sense of community and support in addition to the interpersonal mental health benefits of face-to-face interactions.

2. A wealth of information is at your fingertips –

• Reputable websites can offer information for people to learn about mental health. A greater understanding of mental health could encourage people to seek support and treatment themselves or to reach out for help if they are concerned about a loved one.
• For reliable, trusted online information, your can ask for references from your healthcare provider or other trusted professionals.

3. Timesaving through technology can be beneficial –

• Using technology can save you time, freeing you up for relaxation, fun, exercise, nutrition, and sleep, all of which are mental wellness necessities.
• Online shopping, banking, bill paying, scheduling and calendar apps can leave you with a sense of organization, which can lower stress, and offer you time to spare, which you can use for self-care.

4. E-Books, movies, music, and TV: Entertainment is just a click away –

• Research shows that reading offers an array of health benefits. Reading can help you manage stress, empathize with others, lower blood pressure, manage symptoms of depression, and help you sleep. With e-readers and reading apps, books of all genres are more accessible than ever.
• According to research, listening to music triggers the release of feel-good chemicals in the brain, which can help support mental health. Music can also help with mood regulation and decreased anxiety and symptoms of depression.
• According to mental health professionals, watching movies can boost mental health. Films can offer emotional release. They can also help people learn about themselves by watching characters and their actions, decisions, and consequences. Additional benefits can come from laughing and crying during movies, which can be cathartic.
• Watching TV can offer an escape. Upbeat shows and comedies can provide an outlet for stress. Seeing how characters manage situations can stimulate problem-solving skills. TV shows that boost positive feelings or stimulate creative, rewarding thoughts may be particularly helpful.

5. Websites and apps dedicated to mental wellness and self-care can make mental healthcare more accessible –

• Online therapy can be a convenient, affordable, highly effective way to get help and individualized treatment by collaborating with a licensed mental health professional.
• Apps for self-care can promote mental wellness and spark motivation.
• Apps are available to track symptoms, mood, behavior, and treatments. They can also guide you through relaxation techniques such as meditation and deep breathing, which can help with stress, anxiety, and depression.
• Tracking devices and apps can help with the management of sleep and nutrition, both of which are important for mental health.

With thoughtfulness and smart use, technology can support mental health. If you are experiencing mental health concerns, please seek help from a licensed mental health professional for personalized support and effective treatment.

Author Bio –

Marie Miguel has been a writing and research expert for nearly a decade, covering a variety of health- related topics. Currently, she is contributing to the expansion and growth of a free online mental health resource with MyTherapist.com. With an interest and dedication to addressing stigmas associated with mental health, she continues to specifically target subjects related to anxiety and depression.

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