The entire human population has been more dependent on technology now than ever before as social distancing interventions escalate in reaction to the COVID-19 pandemic. Technical advancements have provided incredible advantages through this period, such as the opportunity to remain connected to friends and families, provide schooling digitally, and even switch to remote working.
While dependence on technology is increasing, it has become imperative to focus on digital wellbeing. In this sense, digital wellbeing can refer to both the positive steps you take to stay secure and balanced and those you follow to stay safe while going online. Technology, particularly in the “COVID world,” is a two-edged sword: you depend on it to remain linked to the universe around us, but it can also cause anxiety, stress, and expose you to online scams, abuse, and false details.
The question here remains: what can be done to avoid such situations? How to identify between the good and the bad? Here is all you need to know about it.
How to improve your digital wellbeing?
Do you feel that Covid restrictions harmed your digital wellness? Are you unsure about ways to improve your digital health? Well, you are going to find all the answers here. With these tips, you are bound to see improvements in your emotional and mental health. Dive right in to know more:
- Beware of online scams:
Given the advent of technology, digital scams have also increased significantly. A majority of companies use a smart cabinet to protect their data from online hackers. But that is not all; scammers are also targeting ordinary people in lieu of the pandemic.
With the explosion of people signing up online and a rise in email volume, phishing schemes in the form of fraudulent emails sent by attackers impersonating the CDC or the World Health Organization have been recorded. These phishing schemes try to trick people into giving out sensitive details in the name of Covid resources and infect their computers with viruses. You can follow these tips to protect yourself from these scams:
- If you receive a strange email that seems to be from somebody you usually correspond with, instead of replying, email the sender directly.
- Never refer to messages demanding money wire transfers, debit card purchases, or other related transactions.
- If you get a weird email asking you to share a folder, go to the Google Drive or Dropbox website directly, not via email.
- Limiting screen time:
It might sound obvious, but investing so much time glued to a mobile screen or TV may negatively impact your digital health by taxing both the body and mind. Elevated screen time has been linked to low self-esteem, depression, and isolation regarding mental wellbeing. Too much time spent in front of a laptop will contribute to eye problems, constant neck pain, and an inactive lifestyle, leading to weight gain.
To restrict screen time, consider using a timer or any of the built-in features on your smartphones. Put all your electronic devices away and take a break from the digital world.
- Work on yourself:
Can you recall all the stories you’ve saved online but never read? Or those hastily read summaries to return to the full article once you get sufficient time? It’s time to go through your bookmarks or guide manager to do some real reading. Take breaks from reading COVID-19 coverage and set aside some time to catch up with articles of your interest. Keeping up to date on business news and events is also an excellent way to keep aware of what’s going on in the finance world right now.
Before the pandemic, most people found it impossible to fit many activities into their hectic schedules. However, with the current situation at hand, you can participate in interactive activities such as webinars and conferences hosted by various organizations and universities. You can join any activity from the convenience of your own house, without needing to think about travel grants or other practical issues. Consider attending webinars on self-care, mental wellbeing, job growth, and other subjects that can provide you with life lessons and provide you with a relaxing change of pace at work.
- Making a positive impact digitally:
The unprecedented situation created by the pandemic has left everyone shocked. It’s normal to feel emotions such as depression, fear, rage, annoyance, disappointment, and even ambivalence during the current times. When you are behind a computer, it is indeed convenient to let certain feelings out. Being sensitive, compassionate, and loving, particularly online, is more critical now than ever. Consider doing a few of the following actions of kindness, whether online or offline, to promote digital wellness:
- Complimenting anyone or sharing a token of appreciation with a coworker, acquaintance, or educator, or celebrating someone’s social media material might help you and others. It is free and will create a massive change in someone’s life.
- Show anyone how much they are valued. People can use a reminder that they matter and why.
- Reach out to somebody you haven’t talked to in a while to see how they’re doing and to let them know you’re available for them if they need it. Technology has made it possible to bring people together, even though they are separated by miles.
In conclusion
Nobody was prepared to address the pandemic when it began. With time people came up with several methods to keep themselves engaged in tough times, and most of them involved technology. Not keeping a check on those methods may adversely affect your digital wellbeing. Following the tips will help you promote digital wellbeing along with overall wellness. Try to apply them in your life and see the changes for yourself.