Udita Madan
The human civilization underwent many changes and developments with the passage of time. Early man lived in caves and forests. They lived on the food available in the forests. Science and technological advancement has blessed mankind with all the basic comforts of life.
Today, emails, iPhones, laptops, and cell phones dominate our modern world. Our uber-connected lives have made us virtually available at any time, at any place -- the movies, the golf course, traffic lights, you name it.
Basically you use technology from the minute you get up (your alarm clock) to the minute you go to sleep (music).
Easy and convenient it may be, however, even though technology benefits our lives greatly, it can go a bit too far.
Technological advances have ameliorated our lives but we are becoming too dependent on it with each passing day. Our love affair with new-age developments is leading to health concerns.
The impact of technology on our social, mental, physical and environmental health can be devastating. Listed below are a few such health concerns that you need to look out for and be aware of if you too are victims of technological dependence.
1. Cellphone use:
According to the National Cancer Institute, the use of mobile phones could potentially pose a risk of brain cancer. Moreover, mobile phone users are more likely to be involved in accidents both in automobiles and on foot.
2. Poor sleeping habits:
Cuddling up with that laptop in bed or late night phone conversations keep us up till the wee hours. These constant interruptions take a toll our mental states, making it difficult to turn off our brains. Give your brains some time out too!
3. Development issues:
Today’s children, irrespective of the age group, are using more technology than ever before. When it comes to the cognitive development of children, the negative effects that technology aides are far greater.
4. Back and neck pain:
Overuse of mobile phones and computers can put a strain on the neck and/or back. Using them in a right manner or a fixed duration can keep you from such discomforts but excess of anything is bad for health, therefore it is essential to limit yourself.
5. Strain on the eyes:
We spend most of our times glaring at laptops and cell phone screens. Prolonged screen-gazing can make you suffer from a long list of eye problems including burning sensations, changes in colour perception or blurred vision.
6. Lack of privacy:
Social media and the internet strip one’s privacy. You can try your best but can’t keep your information safe from prying eyes. The use of phishing techniques and hacking gives those with menacing intentions easy access all your privy information.
7. Obesity risk:
Technology is a crutch. Fascinated by gadgets and gizmos, we don’t move much and gradually get fat. If you don’t want to get unhealthy or overweight, limit the use of technology.
8. Stress:
Switching from platform to platform and doing several things simultaneously can cause serious problems. Our brain is not capable of multi-tasking and when it happens, there can be severe stress which can also turn into rage.
9. Relationship issues:
Social networking platforms are to blame for most problems, including breakups and divorce. These platforms also create negative feelings, low self-confidence and self-doubt.
10. Inappropriate content:
While using the internet, you may accidentally see something inappropriate, usually in the form of pop ups. Not just this, there are spams as well. If you click on something accidentally, explicit content can be sent to your friends.
So use technology, but be smart about it!
