THE GRIP OF DIGITAL ADDICTION – By Nisal Rukshan
From the dawn of civilization, humans have developed various technologies to adapt to different situations. The modus of operandi changes with exposure, innovating new types of technology. It has kept on changing with time to serve a specific purpose. From the Stone Age to the present day, the technology is evolving constantly; it will persist until the end of the world. In modern days, this technology is defined as the application of scientific knowledge to the practical aims of human life or, as it is sometimes phrased, as the alteration of the human environment to achieve certain changes and manipulations.
The face of digitalization, which involves adapting systems and processes to maximize the use of computers and the internet, has changed the concept of digitization, making it more effective and efficient. When the globe is at the fingertips of the people through digital means, technology began a profound journey, incorporating every aspect of human life.
Digitalization is spreading rapidly worldwide, making roles and tasks of human lives more comfortable and efficient. Furthermore, it has enabled people to have more time and freedom to focus on innovation, creativity, critical thinking and mindfulness, which in turn leads to better family life fulfilling the relationships. It is a tremendous advantage for anyone.
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Mindfulness and pleasure are considered as vital components of the human mental health. While technology and digital foundations facilitate humans to reduce some complexities and have a good quality of life, sometimes they can also make the feelings of being trapped.
Some children, teenagers, youngsters, middle-aged people and even elders around the world have become victims of the digital devices. Research has found that technology addiction can cause serious consequences for mental and physical health, including muscle pain, sleep disturbances and a higher risk for mental health issues.
Rather than using our available space and time for innovations, new thinking and engage in physical exercises like playing games, hiking, and swimming or similar activities, we are caught in the invisible grip of this digital or technological web. Do you agree with me?
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Social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram, online games, online music, and chatting through Messenger and WhatsApp applications, have a tight grip on our lives. Sometimes we feel like we can’t get away from them; feeling lonely, anxious, fear of missing something etc. Also even at the doorstep of decision-making, a doubt hits the mind as to whether it is correct or wrong.
It is not easy to understand digital addictions since they include different psychological factors; specially the attraction to videos, music, news, online broadcasting… all sorts of things. As a consequence of the excessive use of these can lead to serious mental and physical health issues and can even be life-threatening.
Relying too much on technology-based digital life will hinder human capabilities; especially cognitive functions such as creative thinking, decision-making, handling daily stress etc. Then it can automatically lead to inactivating natural human behaviours and can isolate to a different state known as ‘learned helplessness’ (they might not even try to change their situation, even when they have the chance to do so.)
Ultimately, the good thing is that the remedies for these are also in our hands and we can fix this. It is by making correct choices, understanding the risks of overusing, recognizing the good and the bad about it finally ourselves a slave of technology. With a simple effort and understanding and even with the support of others anyone can survive. Then this can lead to generations who are sensitive, thoughtful, intelligent, and productive also with cognitive abilities; more than anything with humanistic values filled with a sense of beauty.
Nisal Rukshan, MHRM, B.A. (Defence), BSc (Hons.) Counselling Psychology, DCPsy
Email: rukshan4slsr@gmail.com
