As advancements in technology continue to shape our daily lives, it is important to understand the potential impact it may have on our brain health and cognitive function.
In this digital era, where smartphones, computers, and other gadgets have become indispensable, there is growing concern about the negative consequences of over-reliance on modern technology.
Having smart phones means never having to remember phone numbers. Using Google Maps means never practicing our spacial skills by working with paper maps. Using search engines means finding information effortlessly, without having to search for it by leafing through the pages of books.
And that’s just scratching the surface.
Here are 5 ways technology can be detrimental to our brain health.
1. Reduced Cognitive Function
Research suggests that the constant use of technology devices can lead to reduced cognitive function. The constant multitasking and the quick pace of responding to notifications hinder our ability to focus, concentrate, and retain information [1].
Our brains are wired to process information in small chunks, and our relentless connection to technology disrupts this natural flow.
2. Sleep Disruptions
The blue light emitted by screens suppresses the production of melatonin, a hormone crucial for regulating our sleep-wake cycles. Exposure to screens before bed can disrupt sleep, leaving us feeling groggy and affecting our cognitive abilities the next day [2].
Over time, chronic sleep deprivation can impair memory consolidation and cognitive performance.
3. Impaired Memory
Over-reliance on technology may diminish our ability to remember and recall information. The habit of relying on search engines for information, and smart phones for phone numbers, can weaken our memory recall ability, as we become less reliant on our own cognitive processes for problem-solving [3].
Additionally, when we rely on devices to store information, we can become disengaged from the actual learning process, which is important for memory formation.
4. Sedentary Lifestyle
Excessive use of technology often leads to a sedentary lifestyle, with less physical activity and more time spent in front of screens. This lack of movement negatively impacts our overall brain health. Physical exercise is known to stimulate brain function, increase blood flow, and improve cognition [4].
Prolonged periods of inactivity associated with technology use can have detrimental effects on our brain health in the long run.
5. Emotional Well-being
The constant exposure to social media and other online platforms can negatively impact our mental and emotional well-being. Studies have shown that excessive use of technology can contribute to feelings of anxiety, depression, and social isolation [5].
These negative emotions affect our brain health and cognitive performance, making it more challenging to focus, process information effectively, and make sound decisions.
Conclusion
While modern technology has certainly revolutionized our lives in many positive ways, it is crucial to strike a balance and be mindful of its impact on our brain health. Over-reliance on technology can lead to reduced cognitive function, sleep disruptions, impaired memory, a sedentary lifestyle, and emotional well-being issues.
Actively managing our screen time, engaging in regular physical activity, practicing mindfulness, and fostering strong in-person connections are key steps towards preserving and enhancing our brain health.
Remember, technology is a powerful tool, but moderation and mindful use are key to maintaining a healthy brain in the digital age.
References:
1. Small, G. W., Moody, T. D., Siddarth, P., & Bookheimer, S. Y. (2009). Your brain on Google: patterns of cerebral activation during internet searching. The American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, 17(2), 116-126.
2. Chang, A. M., Aeschbach, D., Duffy, J. F., & Czeisler, C. A. (2014). Evening use of light-emitting eReaders negatively affects sleep, circadian timing, and next-morning alertness. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 112(4), 1232-1237.
3. Storm, B. C., & Stone, S. M. (2014). Saving-then-forgetting promotes passing on transactive memory systems. Journal of Applied Research in Memory and Cognition, 3(2), 98-105.
4. Erickson, K. I., Hillman, C. H., & Kramer, A. F. (2015). Physical activity, brain, and cognition. Current opinion in behavioral sciences, 4, 27-32.
5. Twenge, J. M., Joiner, T. E., Rogers, M. L., & Martin, G. N. (2018). Increases in depressive symptoms, suicide-related outcomes, and suicide rates among US adolescents after 2010 and links to increased new media screen time. Clinical Psychological Science, 6(1), 3-17.