Mohd. Ziyaullah Khan acknowledges that smartphones have become an essential part of our daily lives;however, he points out their potentiality to increase our stress levels and contribute to feelings of anxiety.He also suggests certain strategies whereby we can effectively manage this phone-induced stress and reclaim a sense of balance in our lives.
In my weekend walk at the walkers’ street, I got the chance to meet Mr. Firdous Mirza –asenior lawyer Bombay High Court, Nagpur. Of all the topics, the addiction of phones and the anxiety for smartphones popped as an interesting subject, which made me jot down this piece. In today’s fast-paced digital world, our smartphones have become an essential part of our daily lives. They offer us convenience, connectivity, and a wealth of information at our fingertips. However, along with these benefits, our smartphones also have the potential to increase our stress levels and contribute to feelings of anxiety. It would be interesting to explore how our phones can impact our stress levels and discover some effective ways to manage this phone-induced stress and anxiety.
HOW SMARTPHONES PROPEL HIGHER STRESS LEVEL?
One of the main ways in which our phones contribute to increased stress is through the constant influx of information they provide. With social media notifications, email alerts, news updates, and various other apps vying for our attention, we find ourselves constantly bombarded with a never-ending stream of information. This continuous flow of data creates a sense of urgency and the fear of missing out, leading to a heightened state of stress and anxiety.
Moreover, the addictive nature of smartphones can be a major culprit behind our increased stress levels. The constant need to check our phones, scrolling through social media feeds, and staying updated on every notification can create a sense of dependency and obsession. This digital attachment often leads to anxiety when we are unable to access our phones or when we fear missing important messages or updates.
THE RISE OF SOCIAL MEDIA
The presence of social media platforms also plays a significant role in exacerbating our stress and anxiety levels. Social media has become a platform for comparison and validation, where we constantly compare our lives with others and seek validation through likes and comments. This constant exposure to carefully curated lives of others can lead to feelings of inadequacy, self-doubt, and heightened anxiety. The fact that the majority of individuals in the United States utilise social media is encouraging, as it highlights the potential of this platform to enhance connectivity.
According to a survey conducted for Everyday Health’s 2019 United States of Stress story, which involved 6,700 U.S. adults, it was discovered that a significant number of adults, particularly young adults, engage with social media on a daily basis. For instance, 67 percent of respondents aged 18 to 21 reported checking social media at least once daily, while 60 percent of individuals aged 22 to 37 stated the same. Among those aged 38 to 53, 54 percent reported daily social media usage, and 53 percent of individuals aged 54 to 64 indicated the same behaviour.
Similar studies have been published for Asian and other places as well.
WHAT NEXT?
Are there any ways to defy these issues? Fortunately, there are several strategies we can employ to manage the stress and anxiety induced by our smartphones. First and foremost, it’s crucial to establish boundaries and set limits on our phone usage. Allocating specific times for phone usage and designating periods of digital detox can help create a healthier relationship with our devices. By consciously disconnecting from our phones, we can reduce the constant influx of information and give our minds a much-needed break.
Practising mindfulness and being present in the moment is another effective way to counter the negative effects of smartphone-induced stress. Engaging in activities that promote mindfulness, such as meditation, yoga, or spending time in nature, can help calm our minds and reduce anxiety. By focusing on the present and disconnecting from the digital world, we can regain a sense of balance and inner peace.
Additionally, it is essential to curate our digital environment to minimise stress and anxiety. Unfollow accounts on social media that trigger negative emotions or make us feel inadequate. Instead, surround yourself with positive and inspiring content that uplifts and motivates. Taking control of our digital space allows us to create a supportive and nurturing online environment that promotes well-being.
Establishing healthy smartphone habits is another vital aspect of managing stress and anxiety. Utilise features such as “Do Not Disturb” mode or app timers to limit distractions during specific periods, like work or sleep. By consciously managing our notifications and being selective about the apps we allow on our devices, we can regain control over our digital experiences and reduce the constant stimulation that contributes to stress.
Lastly, incorporating regular breaks from technology into our routines can have a profound impact on our overall well-being. Engaging in activities that don’t involve screens, such as reading a book, pursuing a hobby, or spending quality time with loved ones, allows us to disconnect and recharge. By finding joy and fulfilment in offline experiences, we can break free from the cycle of stress and anxiety perpetuated by our smartphones.
WRAPPING UP
In conclusion, while smartphones have undoubtedly revolutionised our lives, they also have the potential to increase our stress levels and contribute to feelings of anxiety. The constant influx of information, the addictive nature of technology, and the influence of social media all play a role in heightening our stress and anxiety levels. However, by implementing certain strategies, we can effectively manage this phone-induced stress and reclaim a sense of balance in our lives.
[Mohd Ziyaullah Khan is a Sr. Content Writer/Content Head in an IT & Digital Marketing Company in Nagpur]