Technology and Mental Health

Modern technology and social media have transformed how many people live, work, and socialize. There are pros and cons to a life infused with smartphones, high-speed internet, and AI. While technology provides constant convenience and continuous connection, overuse may jeopardize your mental health. Excessive screen time, for example, can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. At the same time, mental health apps and telehealth treatment options can open the door to accessible therapy. 

At Miramont Behavioral Health Hospital, both of our Middleton and Waukesha locations offer comprehensive services for anxiety, depression, and substance use disorder (SUD), but we also provide guidance for clients who struggle with the negative impacts of technology.

Technology Pros and Cons 

The Downsides

The concerning news first: excessive screen use, particularly among teenagers, may worsen mental health conditions. Studies show that young people who spend more than 4 hours per day on screens may develop anxiety and depression at higher rates. Then there’s the constant digital stimulation that can disrupt sleep patterns and limit meaningful, healthy, and necessary face-to-face interactions, adding to feelings of loneliness and social withdrawal.

Teens aren’t the only ones affected. Uncertainty about advances in workplace AI tools and their ability to replace jobs may lead to intense anxiety in adults. In the same vein, constant exposure to workplace social media platforms can also increase the likelihood of burnout, calling for the need to reassess worker-device relationships—among other factors.

The Benefits

Now it’s time to make the case for technology, social media, and the valuable opportunities they provide to improve mental health. Online platforms and social media use may have a positive effect, reducing depression risks for older adults by:

• Helping them stay connected to world events 
• Providing a path to stay up to date with family
• Connecting friends and supportive communities through virtual meetings

Technological innovations have also made therapy more accessible. Telehealth appointments can provide safe, feasible alternatives during health crises like the COVID-19 pandemic or when accommodating busy schedules. Meanwhile, AI-driven apps are advancing rapidly, with some tools detecting early signs of mental health conditions via data collection and behavioral analysis.

In places like Waukesha and Middleton, technology can enable access to therapy for those who might otherwise face geographical or scheduling barriers. At Miramont Behavioral Health, we’re open to incorporating technology in these ways to support your recovery journey.

Tips for Creating Healthy Boundaries With Technology

Establishing healthy boundaries with technology starts with intention and awareness. By understanding what triggers stress or distraction, you can take practical steps to help minimize any harmful effects your technology use might have. 

Minimizing Distractions and Noise

• Cut down the notifications: Constant pings, vibrations, and buzzes may trigger anxiety. Try disabling unnecessary alerts to create quieter environments and promote focus. 
• Audit your apps: Take stock of which apps make you feel stressed or unproductive. Reducing or removing them may help you achieve greater mental clarity.

Make a Habit of Healthy Digital Interactions

Developing mindful habits could help you balance negative emotions associated with heavy technology use.

• Create technology-free zones: Experiment with banning devices or internet use from your bedroom, dining room, or other rooms you frequently use to get uninterrupted rest and family bonding time. 
• Set a digital curfew: This one can be a game-changer for teens. Reducing or stopping screen time a few hours before bed might improve insomnia symptoms or make sleep more restful.  

Cut Down on the Info Overload 

The constant stream of online content, inflammatory news, and oceans of information we see, hear, and read daily may overwhelm your brain and potentially cause panic. Here are some tips to break up the information onslaught: 

• Avoid clickbait and outrage traps: Rather than inflamed forums or opinion-based pieces, focus on credible, journalistic, and balanced news sources. Anything that reads or sounds provocative, polarizing, or highly exciting can be sensationalist and contaminate your conclusions or understanding of different geopolitical situations.
• Explore diverse perspectives: You can try to broaden your outlook by following voices that challenge your current beliefs. If you’re having trouble staying away from inflammatory content, it may be time to consider a digital detox. 

Prioritize Your Well-Being

Practicing empathy and compassion for others can do wonders to elevate your experience with technology and your mental health.

• Set intentions before connecting: Consider what you want to achieve when engaging with digital devices whenever you access one. Are you using your device to find information? Are you seeking entertainment? Are you trying to distract yourself? Do you need to relax? Asking yourself these questions may lead to helpful answers that direct you to another activity, like calling a friend, stretching, reading, or meditating. 
• Share and interact with positivity: If you create content, try to make it uplifting or helpful without alienating other groups of people. Share the content if it’s positive, educational, or funny (without hurting others’ feelings).

Access Mental Health Services in Wisconsin

Remember, if you struggle with anxiety, depression, or SUD, staying mindful of your tech habits can be especially beneficial. No matter the current state of your mental health, Miramont Behavioral Health in Wisconsin is here to help, so reach out to us today.