Back to Human: Prioritising for Better Mental Health
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The concept of "notifications" has sent us down a rabbit hole of anxiety and mental health issues. Alerts on our phones are hardly prioritised, and as a result, we end up trying to do everything all at once. Most of them actually come from social media or other low-priority sources.
No wonder our kids have trouble coping. Each day, they get a barrage of pings and beeps, something we, as children, never had to handle. The constant flow of unimportant information and demands on their attention can lead to stress, anxiety, and a feeling of being swamped. Homework and grades suffer as the current generation struggles to concentrate in school and attain the marks they deserve. It's crucial to address this issue and work with them to develop strategies to help them manage.
Sometimes, we end up having to take the kids' phones and gadgets away at night so they can rest. It's almost like doing them a favour, providing them the opportunity to escape the endless spiral of scrolling and messaging. Without an intervention, their minds remain trapped, unable to find peace or respite.
Limit Notifications
Encourage children to disable non-essential alerts on their devices to reduce constant distractions and allow them to focus on the tasks at hand. For instance, they can set specific times to check social media instead of receiving instant updates.
Prioritisation
Teach them to prioritise their assignments. They can create a to-do list and arrange it in order of importance. By focusing on high-priority items first, they can manage their time more efficiently and reduce feelings of being overwhelmed.
Promote Real-World Activities
Encourage offline engagements such as sports, reading, or hobbies. These provide a healthy break from screens and let children develop interests and skills outside cyberspace. This balance is essential for mental and emotional health.
Let's help our kids navigate the complexities of modern life with greater ease and resilience. Prioritising their psychological well-being is paramount in fostering a healthier, more balanced lifestyle.
Also posted on LinkedIn