As schools are about to open, a “digital detox” can create significant awareness for both students and parents, offering students an opportunity for a healthier life, alleviating mental fatigue and stress.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gül Esra Atalay pointed out that using digital technologies, in a sense, means constantly receiving notifications and mentally trying to keep up with a continuous flow of information. She stated, “Consequently, our capacity to focus is negatively affected, and our minds get tired. Digital detox can reduce mental fatigue by enabling deeper and uninterrupted concentration.”
Üsküdar Üniversitesi, Head of the New Media and Communication Department, Faculty of Communication, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gül Esra Atalay, drew attention to the importance of “Digital Detox” shortly before schools open.
Digital technologies are present in almost every aspect of our lives
Stating that digital technologies penetrate every aspect of our lives, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gül Esra Atalay said, “Digital technologies are present in almost every aspect of our lives and often make our lives easier. However, technological tools and social media platforms that we use for very long hours and almost to the point of addiction can cause as much harm as they are beneficial. The state of being constantly connected can also lead to distraction and stress. Intensive use of digital communication technologies can also leave negative effects on physical health. When social relationships are maintained constantly and solely through digital communication tools, the depth of these relationships can decrease.”
Digital detox is an experience individuals undertake by their own choice
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gül Esra Atalay pointed out that Johann Hari’s book “Stolen Focus” explains the effects of digital technologies on human and social life in great detail. She said, “One of the solutions proposed for all these problems is digital detox. It involves individuals staying away from mobile phones, tablets, and social media platforms for a certain period. It is an experience applied by individuals’ own choices, not through external intervention. Just as there are those who completely restrict digital detox for certain periods, there are also those who practice it by allowing themselves a limited usage time.”
What are the benefits of digital detox?
Explaining the benefits of digital detox, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gül Esra Atalay continued:
“When we practice digital detox, we can find time to engage in alternative activities such as physical activities, spending time in nature, face-to-face social interactions, and personal hobbies. For example, whether we realize it or not, we spend a very long time on social media. We postpone or give up many activities that could be done during this time. Digital detox can enable us to return to these activities that we have neglected and couldn't find time for. There can be a relief in physical ailments caused by the use of digital technologies.”
The effects of digital detox on social relationships…
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gül Esra Atalay pointed out that social relationships are affected by digital technologies both positively and negatively. She said, “While on one hand, it allows us to stay connected with others without limits of distance and time, on the other hand, it reduces face-to-face communication. Mobile phones cause problems even during face-to-face communication due to the habit of constantly looking at screens. Sociotelism (Phubbing), which is looking at mobile phones instead of engaging with the person next to us, negatively affects both intra-family communication and relationships, as well as communication among friends and couples. Digital detox can also be used to reduce these problems. For example, when phone usage is restricted during specific hours when the family spends time together (e.g., at the dinner table) or on certain days, opportunities for conversation and sharing can be created.”
Digital detox also reduces the stress of missing out on social media
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gül Esra Atalay pointed out that using digital technologies, in a sense, means constantly receiving notifications and mentally trying to keep up with a continuous flow of information. She concluded, “Consequently, our capacity to focus is negatively affected, and our minds get tired. Digital detox can reduce mental fatigue by enabling deeper and uninterrupted concentration. Since social media usage can also cause problems such as FOMO (Fear of Missing Out), comparing oneself to others, and bad news addiction, Digital detox can relieve individuals by reducing this stress and anxiety.”
