How Your Computer Could Be Linked To Your Feelings Of Stress
If you ever needed a reason to shut down your computer for an hour or two (or more), let it be this one.
Your computer could be the reason behind your feelings of stress.
Don't believe us? Well, consider the reasons why in this article. If you relate to any of them, then to reduce your stress, your best course of action might be to take a break away from the device you regularly use. Your stress levels might decrease, and you might experience a positive turnaround in your mental health.
Here are just some of the reasons why computers can be linked to feelings of stress.
#1: Technical issues
Slow-loading websites, software incompatibilities, corrupt web pages, computer viruses… these are just some of the technical issues that many of us encounter when using our computers. These issues can cause to shout at our computer screens, slam our hands down on the keyboards we are using, and give us reason to consider relegating our computers to the recycling bin outside. Especially for those of us are less-than-proficient in all things IT-related, our stress levels are bound to rise when we don't know the solutions to such problems.
Tip: As with anything you don't understand, commit to research. There will be a solution online or on the other end of a phone call to an IT expert, so don't spontaneously combust with fury whenever you encounter an issue. And take a walk away from your computer too. By taking a few moments to calm down, you are less likely to make matters worse by destroying your keyboard or throwing a mug of coffee at your monitor!
#2: A lack of sleep
You are putting your sleep quality at risk whenever you decide to use your computer (or other devices) late at night. This is partly because of the blue light effect that can mess with your body clock, and partly because you might struggle to put down your computer if you are engaged with Facebook, video games, or any other types of addictive computer behavior. And the upshot of a lack of sleep? A more tired you in the morning, and a physical and mental state that is more conducive towards feelings of stress.
Tip: Turn off your computer an hour or two before you go to bed, and do other things with your time to boost your quality of sleep, such as a few minutes of exercise, reading a few pages of a book, or by resting your mind with meditation. You will then receive all the rest you need, and be in a less-stressed out state the next day.
#3: The problem of social media
There is nothing inherently wrong with social media, but common sense is needed. If you are forever comparing yourselves to your friends on Facebook, isolating yourself away from real social company, and spending little time in exercise because you're glued to your computer screen, then you are going to experience feelings of stress. Here are some other stress-related problems connected to social media.
Tip: Switch off from social media. Especially if you are more than a little addicted to Facebook, etc., finding time to do other things with your life should be a necessity. See your friends and talk to them face-to-face. Take part in fun activities in and out of your home. And spend time thinking about happy thoughts about your life, instead of comparing it to the seemingly perfect lives of your social networks. Hint: people lie, especially on social media, so never believe everything you read online anyway.