Our phones, tablets, computers and TVs have become our constant companions and we can seldom do without them. Thanks to these devices, we can stay in touch with our loved ones, know what is going on around us and even take our work with us wherever we go.
However, you might be surprised to learn that the amount of time you and your family spend interacting with screens can have a negative impact on your mental and psychological health. For instance, excessive internet usage has been linked to an increase in depression and various mental illnesses in both teens and adults.
Teens are also more susceptible to social media addiction which can contribute to increased suicide rates, sexual promiscuity, cyber bullying and violence. Troubled teens who struggle with these issues often require individualized treatment at a reputable residential treatment center in order to reform.
Benefits Of Unplugging
While you can’t force your family to completely ditch technology, regularly minimizing its use can offer some surprising mental health benefits including:
- Reduced stress. Taking a break from the virtual world for a few hours after work every day can help you reduce stress by giving you time to rest. You can use this time to unwind and reconnect with your family, becoming a better parent and spouse as a result.
- Enhanced concentration and productivity. Most of us mistakenly think that multitasking makes us more productive. Unfortunately, trying to respond to work emails or social media posts while helping your kids with homework and trying to watch a TV show at the same time only cuts into your ability to get things done. Something as simple as turning off your social media notifications can reduce interruptions and allow you to concentrate on the important tasks at hand.
- Better sleep quality. The light given off by computer and TV screens has been found to reduce the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates your body’s sleep-wake cycle. As such, using your devices even a few hours before hitting the sack can decrease chances of having a restful night making you a prime candidate for a range of chronic health issues, not to mention a serious case of brain fog in the morning. A technology fast, therefore, allows you to get a good night’s rest which in turn makes you more energetic and alert during the day.
- Improved memory and retention. Unplugging even for a day gives the brain enough downtime to reboot and recharge which goes a long way towards improving memory, enhancing retention and boosting an individual's mood.
Getting Help
If you are the parent of a troubled boy who is struggling with depression, substance abuse, porn addiction or any other negative effects of internet and social media addiction, contact Liahona Academy at 1-855-587-1416. We are ready to give your son all the help he needs to break these habits and get his life back on track.
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