When in my 20s (oh, so long ago!), if I wanted to arrange to see someone, I’d call them at home, then we’d meet up at roughly the time we agreed and go out. Maybe I’d send a letter. That was it.
Now, it’s oh so different! In addition to the (never used) home phone, I have a mobile to receive and make calls, SMS and MMS; three email accounts; a fax; a YouTube account; Twitter (which I never use); a personal and company Facebook page; Instagram; LinkedIn, a couple of other random social media networks I’ve forgotten, and access to the internet on four separate devices. I’m connected. We all are.
Being connected brings enormous advantages and opportunities. A life of continuous connection has become “normal”. But is it healthy? A few years ago, American researchers used brain scans to show internet usage was literally rewiring our brains. In a study published in January, Chinese researchers likened the brains of internet addicts to those who abuse drugs and alcohol.
In July, a Taiwanese teenager dropped dead after playing online video games for 40 consecutive hours. It is speculated that long hours in a sedentary position created cardiovascular problems for the 18-year-old.
…when I’m not distracted by online chatter… true human connections occurs
Other studies have shown the more a person hangs out online, the worse they’re likely to feel. When web use and online connection displaces sleep, exercise and face-to-face communication, it can lead to loneliness, a sense of isolation and depression. Only last month Australian swimmer Emily Seebohm burst into tears after she came second in her favoured 100m backstroke event at the London Olympics. She confessed her preoccupation with Facebook and Twitter may have cost her the gold medal.
Studies tell us the average person – regardless of age – sends or receives about 400 texts a month (if you’re a teenager make that 4,000). Apparently, nearly 50 per cent of people grab their iPhone to hop online or check emails before getting out of bed. A similar number admit to logging into work emails while on holiday.
The double-edged sword of connectivity is most keenly felt in remote areas, where mobile phone and internet reception are non-existent or patchy at best.There’s a period of readjustment, when you’re suddenly deprived of the constant drip-feed of news, information and entertainment, then you realise the only person you can communicate with is the one sitting beside or in front of you. I’ve found, though, it is in those times, when I’m not distracted by online chatter and human interaction isn’t limited to 140 characters or less, that true human connections occurs – with my family, with my friends, with colleagues and strangers.
The internet and communication technology are vital to modern life. There’s no going back. I’m not about to disconnect. But I’m mindful of the stress caused by constant connectivity and the disconnection it creates. Every now and then, it’s good to remind ourselves to switch off, unplug and go offline. There’s a lot to be said for moderation in all things.
