As technology advances and permeates every aspect of our lives, it's becoming increasingly clear that it has the potential to trigger stress and anxiety in individuals. From constant notifications to social media algorithms, technology can often leave us feeling overwhelmed and stressed out.

As a breathwork and somatic therapy coach, I have seen firsthand the negative impact technology can have on mental health. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the ways that technology can trigger stress and anxiety and what we can do to manage it.

Social media algorithms

Social media has become a ubiquitous part of our lives. While it can be an excellent tool for connecting with others, it can also trigger stress and anxiety. One of the main culprits is social media algorithms. These algorithms are designed to keep us engaged by showing us content we will likely interact with. While this may seem harmless, it can lead to an endless scroll of content, leaving us feeling overwhelmed and anxious.

Solution: Take a break from social media or limit your screen time. You can also consider muting or unfollowing accounts that don't make you feel good.

Constant notifications

Our phones are constantly buzzing and beeping with notifications, emails, and messages. This constant barrage of information can be overwhelming and stress us out. Research has shown that the mere presence of a phone can cause stress and anxiety, even if we're not actively using it.

Solution: Turn off notifications for non-essential apps and create boundaries around when you check your phone.

Comparison culture

Social media has also created a culture of comparison. We're bombarded with images of perfect bodies, homes, and lives. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and anxiety.

Solution: Practice self-compassion and remember that social media is often a highlight reel. Focus on your strengths and accomplishments.

Work-from-home burnout

The pandemic has forced many of us to work from home, blurring the lines between work and personal life. This can lead to burnout and stress.

Solution: Create boundaries between work and personal time. Establish a routine and schedule breaks throughout the day.

Information overload

The internet has made it easy to access information at the touch of a button. While this can be beneficial, it can also lead to information overload. We're bombarded with news stories, emails, and messages, leaving us overwhelmed and stressed.

Solution: Limit your intake of news and information. Choose reliable sources and take breaks from the constant stream of information.

Final Thought

In conclusion, technology can potentially trigger stress and anxiety in individuals. However, by being mindful of our technology use and creating boundaries, we can mitigate its negative impact on our mental health. As a breathwork and somatic therapy coach, I encourage you to take a break from technology and prioritize self-care. Remember, it's okay to unplug and take time for yourself.