Buckle up: We're in a battle ... for our brains
We've intuitively known that our cell phones and social media were changing the way we think, process, and attend, and also, in how we relate to other people. The data bears that out, and it's, not surprisingly, scary.
Photo by Tara Winstead from Pexels
This is a short newsletter from me, but consider it an invitation for additional reading if you're interested or curious (which I hope you are).
I specifically invite you to check out these two articles:
Social Media Shortens Your Life: Here’s How to Get Time Back, and
Alarming New Study Finds Smartphones Ruining Our Brains at Unprecedented Speed
I’m not attached to my cell phone; people who love me are often frustrated that they can’t get a hold of me because a) my phone is always on silent (insert my husband’s eye roll), and b) I, not uncommonly, have no idea where my phone is (while I always know the location of the book I’m reading). And, I’ve previously written about my own choice to step back from social media, and the reasons why. The thoughts in these articles I’m sharing with you are very much in line with my own concerns, and with my own personal and clinical observations.
My friends, family, and clients have likely heard my diatribe of how this technology is not like radio in the 1920’s, tv in the 1930’s, or rock and roll in the 1950’s. Yes, all of these things were groundbreaking and culture changing. And previous generations likely said they were going to ruin our children. As we are saying now …
But, this really is different. Why? Because it’s in our pockets. It is available to us 24/7. The constant use of our phones and the addictive nature of social media has changed our culture and is changing our brains, and is doing so at speed. And not necessarily for the better.
If this message resonates, let me know! I’d love to hear from you! I read and respond to every message (yes, really!).
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Please note: this newsletter is disseminated for informational and educational purposes only and should not, in any way, be construed as medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice. Please be certain to check with your physician or personal therapist with regard to whether these suggestions are appropriate for your individual situation.