Today we would like to discuss a word that you may or may not be familiar with: technostress. According to Dr. Larry D. Rosen, professor of psychology at California State University, technostress refers to “the ways that technology causes irritation, frustration, stress, and lack of sleep.” Is modern technology causing stress in your own life? Are you having difficulties establishing boundaries with your mobile devices? Modern technology rapidly advanced in the past few years, and it seems that we have not learned when to put our smartphones or tablets away. Let’s learn more about the effects of technological devices on your health.

Your Personal Relationships

If you live with your significant other, do you find yourself spending more time on social media than you do having an actual conversation with him? Do you keep your cell phone on the table when you are dining out with friends? Do you play on your smartphone when you are hanging out with your kids? If you are sacrificing quality time with the people you love the most, you need to know when to put your phone away. How important is that Facebook post or email if you can’t have a conversation with your own family members. If some of these situations are familiar to you, don’t fret. You can change your habits simply by putting your phone away and not checking it while engaging with your loved ones.

How Technology Affects Your Sleep

It’s recommended that you do not watch TV or use your smartphone, tablet, or computer an hour before bed. All of these devices emit a blue light, which stimulates the brain and suppresses your body’s melatonin production, which helps you sleep soundly. When your sleep cycle is disrupted, you could be more likely to experience stress and depression. If you find yourself checking emails before bedtime, you could also be stimulating your brain as well.

Using Technology Too Early

When you awaken in the morning, do you reach for your phone and start checking emails or going on social media? When you do this, you are immediately responding to the needs of others before you have even left the comfort of your bed. Try to refrain from checking your phone the first hour before going to work so that you can take care of yourself and mentally prepare yourself for the day. The morning could be a great time for you to go outside and exercise. You could try meditating in the morning as well to gain some clarity and a sense of well-being.

Steps You Can Take

You may be wondering what you can even do if your mobile devices cannot be used an hour before bedtime. You could read a paper book, or write in a journal. Perhaps nighttime would be a great time for you to meditate. Are you interested in online health supplements? Check out Rosavin®and Rosavin Plus®, which are both available in our health supplement store, Ameriden International. We feature a variety of supplements for your health.