Technology's Double-Edged Sword: Its Impact on Human Mental Health

Technology, like everything else in the world, is not eternal. The ever-evolving existence of technology undoubtedly has a huge impact on humanity, especially on mental health, which is as important as physical health. Everyone's mental health is a state of well-being that allows them to reach their full potential. When compared to the difficult times of the past, all of which were caused by a lack of technology, everyone should be grateful to be alive today. Technology developments are intended to make humans' lives easier, but they frequently become too reliant on them (Munster, 2019). As we become more reliant on technology, we ought to ask ourselves: Are we masters of these gadgets, or are we captives to them?

The Pitfalls of Social Media

Technological sophistication in social media affects mental health. The fact that everyone accepts the bad things that happen on social media as normal, as well as the 'risk' of utilizing it, exacerbates the situation. If this is justified in the future, it could lead to even more serious consequences. When interviewed for a Piedmont Health article, Dr. Saju Mathew stated that people use social media to seek affirmation and, whether they realize it or not, to compare their lives to those of others. As a result, many people may be dissatisfied with their current circumstances (Bradley University, n.d.)

There must be a sense of happiness when they see a friend or family with a good career, a wonderful relationship, and a lovely home. However, envy, which can lead to sadness, does emerge on occasion. Even when they see that their accomplishments are not comparable to others, this feeling can lead to suicidal thoughts. People are constantly slandered on social media. If a person's mental health is not strong enough to deal with mental health issues, the risk increases. Humans are not sinless; there are many temptations that might lead us astray. Many children were seduced by the technology's complexity.

Addiction and Disconnection

Excessive and unwise use of technology. Lack of awareness about managing social media usage will definitely hinder your academic progress and your ability to communicate face-to-face. Connectivity made through social media reduces your emotional satisfaction and makes you feel isolated from your social life. Many of us know that dependency on technology makes us introverted. Technology has taken the lead and changed the way people think. 

According to research published in the journal JAMA Psychiatry, many people, particularly teenagers who spend more than three hours per day on social media, are at significant risk for mental health issues, including internalization and self-image issues. Although parents and schools have taught children to use technology responsibly, they are less obedient because they are unaware of its long-term consequences. This is especially true for adolescents who are careless and indifferent to their own safety and have unstable attitudes. It is important to cultivate understanding and awareness about the appropriate use of technology from an early age.

The Stigma Persists

Changes in technology lead to the growth of mental health issues. Depression, low self-esteem, and loneliness are all possible consequences of technological advancements. It is so tightly linked to electronics that some of us still use different functionalities on our gadgets before going to bed. Naturally, this has a negative effect on our mental health. People with mental illnesses should have equal possibilities as everyone else. They may develop mental health concerns as a result of their circumstances and then opt to keep silent or avoid seeking expert care.

Despite the fact that numerous groups have discussed it, campaigns have been organized, social media has been used to discuss it, and a few films have been produced about mental health. Unfortunately, mental health remains a taboo for certain people. Indonesia, with all of its occultism, considers persons suffering from mental illnesses to be insane or possessed by demons. In truth, mental diseases are physical conditions that affect the brain. Perhaps people are ignorant of what is going on inside themselves. They may develop practices that contribute to diseases they are ignorant of.

Striking a Balance

It is undeniable that human mental health has been affected by technological changes. While technology is a big problem for those who suffer from severe mental illness, there have been some interesting recent developments that use technology to improve the validity of functioning assessments and may lead to novel treatments. Providing a wide range of mental health services, such as mobile mental health assistance and digital literacy, that are accessible, inexpensive, and adaptable to many languages and ages.

Everyone should work together to promote awareness about the importance of mental health in order to help governments, organizations, and individuals afflicted by mental illness. Limiting or exercising self-control in our use of technology is also vital, as is filling spare time with outdoor or non-tech activities, as well as spending time regularly with family and friends. In the current circumstances, psychosocial help is required, particularly for children and adolescents. Being up-to-date is crucial, but our mental wellness is even more important. If others undervalue it, do not be hesitant to warn them.

-There is nothing wrong with starting something small, as long as it's a good deed that benefits everyone.