Is technology isolating us?

Technology, such as cellphones and social media, has dramatically transformed the way we
engage with one another over the last few decades. However, studies have found that people have
become lonelier during this time, which is having negative effects on society all across the world. As a
result, we cannot help but question if technology is to blame.

Everyone experiences loneliness from time to time. After all, loneliness stems from an unmet
need for meaningful personal connection, which might strike you whether you're alone at home or in a
crowded room. However, if you continue to feel lonely, it can be harmful to your physical, mental, and
emotional health.

According to some doctors, loneliness is just as harmful to one's health as obesity or smoking
fifteen cigarettes per day. It has been established in studies that it reduces the number of neurons in
your brain and changes some brain functions. Heart disease, diabetes, substance abuse, and even early
mortality have all been related to loneliness. Furthermore, it affects people from all areas of life,
regardless of gender, age, color, or social abilities, according to specialists.

Many countries have declared a loneliness epidemic, claiming that it is putting a strain on their
healthcare systems, reducing productivity, and lowering general quality of life. According to one
research, 47% of Americans believe they have no genuine personal connections. The problem of
loneliness in the United Kingdom has become so widespread that the Ministry of Loneliness was
established to address it. Other countries, such as China and Japan, are experiencing widespread social
isolation.

So, what is causing this increase in loneliness? Although no one knows for sure, the ubiquitous
use of digital screens is likely to be a factor.

Many experts believe that continual access to technology, particularly cellphones, prevents us
from forming personal bonds. Many people have made it a habit to go for their smartphones whenever
they have idle time, and this activity may be exacerbating our loneliness. According to a study,
smartphone dependency predicts a higher prevalence of loneliness and depression in young adults.

Experts also agreed that excessive social media use can be harmful to one's emotional well-
being. According to a 2017 study, heavy social media users were three times more likely than occasional
users to feel socially isolated. People who use social media may feel as though they are missing out on
important social events, which can lead to feelings of isolation, worry, and insecurity.

Some people's social isolation might also lead them down dangerous online paths. Individuals
with strong ideologies frequently use social media and discussion forums to disseminate destructive
worldviews to lonely people. People's loneliness and resentment are exploited by extremism, which
gives them a sense of belonging and community while bombarding them with negative content.

How technology can be a solution to isolation?

While no one should rely on technology to meet all their social requirements, it can be a good
beginning point for deeper connections. To begin with, balanced social media use can aid in the
prevention of loneliness, particularly in populations that have difficulty meeting others face to face, such
as the elderly. People can also utilize technology to join a group that shares their interests or use a
dating app to find a romantic partner.

Speaking with someone can be the next best thing to meeting someone in person. For instance,
if your good friend lives a thousand miles away, you can give them a call, or voice chat with them while
playing a video game together online.

Try to maintain a healthy balance between technology and developing personal connections. No
matter who you are or where you are from, those connections can make a big difference.