(More on Stress cont. 5)

Technostress

Introduction

"...If you're ever spent a sustained period of time detached from your digital device, you will know the joy and clarity it produces. New ideas emerge. Your brain feels fully rested. The soul feels full..."
Michelle Gibbings, 2023b

Question is
"...Is technology controlling you, or are you controlling it?......Is technology hindering or accelerating your progress?..."
Michelle Gibbings, 2023b

Too much tech can negatively impact your mental health and well-being, eg

- will increase the probability of burnout

- negatively impact your quality of life

- can lead to techno-addiction

- negative impact on brain functions and behaviour like
"...heightened attention-deficit symptoms, impaired emotional and social intelligence and brain development, technology addiction, social isolation, and disrupted sleep..."
Michelle Gibbings, 2023b

These adverse effects don't depend on the type of technology you use; rather very according to how you use technology.

However, specific types of computer programs and video games can improve memory, multitasking skills, fluid intelligence and other cognitive abilities.

Warning signs

Being alert to the warning signs is important as
"...chronic work-related stress is associated with health issues such as depression and coronary heart disease and directly impacts workplace productivity, job satisfaction and retention, and personal and professional relationships..."
Michelle Gibbings, 2023b

Check if the pressure at work is becoming unhealthy as shown by drops in productivity, unexplained absences and uncharacteristic behaviour; for individuals, check if you are unable to switch your digital devices off and/or are constantly refreshing your screens.

Some ways to handle technology

- set boundaries (need to agree on what is reasonable, like handling electronic messages outside set work hours; you need to take a real break from electronic messages outside work hours, ie support the right of staff to disconnect
"...workers' rights to be able to disengage from work and refrain from engaging in work-related electronic communications, such as e-mails or other messages, during non-work hours..."
European Union as quoted by Michelle Gibbings, 2023b

Some organisations are setting rules about electronic communications being sent outside working hours, eg if sending electronic message outside work hours, a pop-up appears asking you to check if you can send the e-mail during working hours.)

- step away (determine which is the best way to communicate like online, face-to-face, verbally on the phone, etc.

Need to physically get away from your computer and exercise; exercise releases endorphins, which can help motivate and elevate one's mood.
"...getting away from your desk. It was by shifting your environment, you alter your state, helping to reset your mindset and get a fresh perspective..."
Michelle Gibbings, 2023b

Find ways to interact with others that is beyondany technology device.)

- find the off switch (be willing to switch technology off; be careful about what applications you allow to send you alerts and notifications; regularly check and remove apps that you no longer use from your phone:
"...you want structures in place and habits established so you rely less on self-control..."
Michelle Gibbings, 2023b

Be careful of 'ego depletion', ie as the day continues and you tire, your self-control starts to decrease; you need willpower to have self-control.)

- avoid digital book-ending (avoid starting and finishing your day with technology; sleep is a critical ingredient for well-being.
"...Research shows that using technology emits a blue light that stimulates the brain, making it harder to fall asleep. It can also negatively impact your circadian rhythm, reduce the amount of REM sleep you receive and therefore impact your alertness when you wake up in the morning..."
Michelle Gibbings, 2023b

Develop a habit of switching off your phone and digital devices at a set time each evening.)

- seek a real connection (you have choices on how you direct your energy and attention like time spent in the company of others;
"...We are hard-wired for connection, and too much technology fuels disconnection. Spending your day at work, checking social media and 'scrolling' will not aid your productivity, mood or relationships. Set aside regular times for social engagements and opportunities where you can share, laugh and connect away from your digital devices..."
Michelle Gibbings, 2023b