Social Isolation due to Technology

By Raichel Cochancela

New generations are growing up in an environment surrounded by technology. It almost comes naturally to give children technological devices to avoid or decrease temper tantrums, keep them entertained, distract them, etc. Parents use technology to comfort their children. Thus, it is not surprising that throughout adolescence and adulthood there is a prevalent desire to own technological devices and to be active on social media platforms. It is evident that technology plays a significant role in life. Owning technological devices, especially smartphones, has become the norm in society. Alarmingly, there seems to be a correlation between high levels of social isolation and technology. In-person interactions with friends and family members are decreasing as more time is spent on technological devices. People are not interested in being at social settings. Instead, many prefer to stay home and spend their spare time with technology. Technology tends to increase social isolation, which can have detrimental effects on mental health well-being. Social isolation can increase emotional isolation, detachment, loneliness, anxiety, psychical problems, etc.

To avoid social isolation due to technology you can,

• Monitor and limit your screen time
• Join group activities (sports, clubs, groups, etc.)
• Meet with family members
• Reconnect with friends
• Volunteer for your community
• Enroll in seminars of your interest
• Reach out for support

If you or someone you know is struggling with social isolation please contact our psychotherapy offices in New York or New Jersey to talk to one of our licensed professional psychologists, psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, or psychotherapists at Arista Psychotherapy & Psychiatric Services. Contact our Manhattan, NY or Paramus, NJ offices respectively at (201) 368-3700 or (212) 722-1920 to set up an appointment. For more information, please visit https://www.counselingpsychotherapynjny.com