Much ado has been made of the ill health effects of smartphone use primarily depression, sleep disturbance and even brain cancer.
It’s depressing to think that this device we are all addicted to is making us more depressed. Another disturbing side effect that has the potential to be even more devastating is the long term change in behavior smartphone use evokes, especially for teenagers.
This fascinating article, written in the Atlantic, is about the drastic changes in adolescent life that link with smartphone use. The bottom line is that teens are spending less time together which leads to increased isolation and depression.
Instead of spending their time in face to face interaction or talking on the phone, they are connecting virtually on social media like Facebook and Snapchat. Turns out that virtual relationships are not the same as actual ones. This applies to both adults and teenagers.
As we know from various studies loneliness is toxic.
It’s not just depression or brain cancer that might negatively impact our lives, it’s the social isolation that might be even worse. Being socially isolated increases cortisol and inflammation which puts us at risk of numerous health issues, like cardiovascular disease, obesity, and diabetes.
It is ironic that our devices which make it so easy to stay in touch with each other are in fact doing the opposite. We all have phones with us 24/7 but rarely are our phones used for their original purpose- talking to each other.
If we reach out directly to others, it’s usually by texting or email.
Or updating your status on FB.
Smartphones can be so incredibly useful and of course are fun. Social media is also. But it’s not a replacement for live interactions. Connect with your friends on Facebook, but make sure to do so in person as well.
Pick up your phone. Make a call. Talk to a friend, especially if you’re feeling lonely.
By doing so, you are adding another essential element to a healthy lifestyle. Maintaining your relationships is likely just as important, if not more so, than eating healthy food and exercising.
Eat well, move, use your smartphone for all the many helpful and fun things it can do then unplug, and enjoy the company of friends and family.