Technology as a Double-Edged Sword

Picture this: enjoying brunch with colleagues, where you’re excitingly exchanging anecdotes, insights, and perspectives over pancakes. Slowly, our conversation turned from discussing the latest bestseller to something more profound—how technology shapes our mental well-being. I know it's a heavy topic for an early morning brunch, but that’s how we like to roll.

In all seriousness, we all have a different relationship with technology. While we certainly shared stories of its ability to empower, we couldn’t ignore how tech can overwhelm us. As someone deeply involved in autoimmune conditions, I couldn't help but reflect on how these dynamics intersect with the lives of those managing axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA).

In today's digital age, technology permeates every aspect of our lives

With the advancement of smartphones, we're constantly connected to social media, but at what cost? While social media has gotten many of us through tough times, we cannot ignore the intricate relationship between technology and mental health.

For those grappling with axSpA, managing mental well-being is as crucial as physical health. As we know, the relentless nature of chronic illness, coupled with the demands of daily life, can impact our mental health. Even though I recognize the powerful impact that technology can have in bringing us together, I equally understand the influence it can have on our mental health. That’s why it's paramount to cultivate resilience and foster a sense of empowerment within this community, and we recognize how technology can be a double-edged sword.

That said, there are ways to navigate the digital landscape more mindfully

We can harness its benefits while mitigating its potential pitfalls.

1. Connection vs. isolation

As an ambivert, I will be the first to say that I constantly balance connection and isolation. For that reason, I have greatly appreciated technology's ability to offer me unprecedented opportunities for connectivity. Whether accessing support networks or fostering a sense of community with various platforms, we can prevent ourselves from feeling alone in many ways.

However, connectivity can come at a high price if you’re not careful. The constant barrage of notifications and curated social media feeds can also breed feelings of inadequacy and isolation. That’s why a general rule I have for myself (and I have very few rules for myself) is that if any account on social doesn’t bring me joy, it’s time to unlike and unfollow. It’s not to say anything wrong with that account, but it is an opportunity to check in with myself and cultivate feeds that leave me feeling connected rather than isolated.

2. Information overload

In the era of Dr. Google, information is readily available at our fingertips. While this can empower us to take control of our health, it can also fuel anxiety and hypervigilance. I cannot tell you how many Google rabbit holes I've gone down with the alphabet soup of conditions I've compiled over the years. Sadly, I know too well that this can lead to fear and uncertainty.

This is why I like to remind myself of a phrase I heard years ago from a mentor: “Just in time learning.” That means you learn things when you have the time, resources, and capacity to implement them. In other words, as it might be interesting to know what it means to have a specific gene, I don't need to read every research article on it if it's not relevant to my current health situation. Instead, I focus on learning relevant information that I can immediately act on.

3. Digital detox

I saved this one for last because it’s the one thing many of us struggle with regarding technology. I know I’ve touched upon social media, but that’s not the only technology you might need to detox from. From cell phones to tablets, we must implement digital detoxification strategies beyond social media. For some, this can mean setting boundaries, establishing tech-free zones, and prioritizing in-persn connections. In other words, we can create more balance by periodically breaking free from technology.

However, as someone who has always preferred the slow-and-steady versus cold turkey approach, I wouldn’t kiss all your tech goodbye. Instead, I’ve found it helpful to focus on the piece of technology that gives you the MOST anxiety. For me, it’s not social media but email.

Whenever I heard that ping of a new email, I would immediately get tense, so I turned the notifications off on my phone and only checked my email on my laptop. Just that one switch helped restore my equilibrium and remove the negative feelings I had every time I checked my email.

Time for some reflection!

As we navigate the complexities of technology's impact on mental health, we must reflect on our digital habits and their implications for our well-being. It’s time to share your thoughts and experiences. How has technology influenced your mental health journey? Join the conversation in the comments below.