Tips on how to maintain your mental health in the digital era.
There is no doubt there are increasing benefits artificial intelligence (AI) brings to the table, but what are the risks AI may cause in mental health?
The digital and information era really changed the way we do life. In the past we needed to visit libraries to do research on certain subjects. Now we can use search engines and even use AI. We could visit family and friends to spend quality time with them. As every individual is unique, we gain different perspectives and learn how to think on our feet which broadens our understanding and frame of reference. Yes, we can still visit our friends and family, sometimes on virtual calls, but I’m wondering whether the social connections we experience are less or whether we experience less connection than we used to.
My curiosity got the better of me this morning and I decided to run a prompt on AI on the risks AI may bring to mental health. These included the following:
Unrealistic expectations and increased impulsivity, in effect contributing to anxiety and depression when expectations aren’t met.
Comparison with others, extreme technology consumption and chronic need for validation, leading to low self-esteem.
Reinforcement of limiting beliefs and perspectives.
Low productivity and information overload.
Restlessness and addictive digital behaviour.
Increased feelings of loneliness and social anxiety.
Decreased focus and mental health.
Below are a few mindfulness tools which can be used to combat the risks of AI, assisting you to be present, and authentically you.
Journaling offers a powerful experience of self-reflection, basically downloading all your concerns, while affirming all your dreams and hopes.
Reading is a great way to improve your mental health and communication skills, while feeding your soul.
Creative writing and art therapy is an empowering way of expressing yourself, processing your emotions and to step out of the box for a moment.
Physical exercise releases endorphins which reduce stress, improves sleep and emotional health.
Social connection is an important way of sharing experiences, supporting each other, while growing in all areas of your life.
In closure, I’d like to encourage you to visit the library to do research or just to read some books, visit family and friends face-to-face and let others know that you appreciate them, because when we share love, we release the power of love.