We live in a world overflowing with digital media, technology, and constant access to real-time information from around the globe. But do the benefits of being ever-connected also come with risks to our mental health? Can we develop healthy media applications and utilize technology that adds value to our lives? Will the benefits of technology ever outweigh the negatives?
Whether you believe in these benefits or not, it is evident that technology marches forward with continual advancements designed to make our lives easier and dependent on it to function and interact with our society. As with centuries of generations before ours we have a responsibility to educate, monitor, and protect our youth and future generations to live safely and healthy in the modern world.
Media balance is considering what technology you choose to use when you decide to use it, and how much of it you consume. From phones and tablets to streaming movies and YouTube, tech and media are everywhere. Kids love easy access to TV shows, games, and information. Parents and caregivers love that kids can stay in contact while they explore their independence. But it is easy to overdo it when the phone never stops pinging and the next episode plays automatically. Families can keep media and tech use in check by following a few simple practices.
- Create screen-free times and zones.
- Explore built-in digital well-being tools.
- Model the behavior you want to see.
- Help kids identify healthy behaviors.
- Understand how tech companies make money.
The Council on Chemical Abuse offers programs that focus on digital citizenship and the links between gaming and gambling.
For more information:
Teens & Technology – Council on Chemical Abuse | Your Bridge to Addiction Resources
