In the dynamic landscape of technology, experts propose an educational campaign in schools to encourage responsible smartphone use. The Asian Coalition for Health Empowerment (ACHE) recently hosted a groundbreaking webinar titled ‘From Kids to Seniors: Decoding Digital Addiction’s Grip and Empowering Change’ to shed light on the pervasive issue of digital addiction and strategies for positive change.
During the webinar, Dr. Nimesh G. Desai, a Senior Psychiatrist & Former Director at the Institute of Human Behaviour & Allied Sciences (IHBAS) in Delhi, emphasized the importance of balancing the positive and negative aspects of technology. He acknowledged that while technology addiction cannot be completely defeated, it is essential to embrace the positive aspects and consider those prone to addiction.
Dr. Puneet Jain, a Clinical Psychologist at Vinayak Hospital in Noida, discussed the psychological aspects of digital addiction. He highlighted that excessive smartphone use can contribute to various health issues, including cervical problems, weakened eyesight, hearing impairment, and changes in blood chemistry. Additionally, smartphones negatively impact sleep patterns by releasing dopamine, leading to a false sense of satisfaction.
Both experts advocated for digital detoxification and proposed educational campaigns in schools to encourage responsible smartphone use. Dr. Desai stressed the importance of teaching children about the problems of excessive smartphone use, with parents leading by example. Dr. Jain suggested avoiding phone use before sleep or during family time to prevent a disconnection from reality. Initiatives such as keeping phones outside the house, as seen in Europe, can also encourage more meaningful interactions.
The webinar concluded with a call to enjoy life with real interactions, urging individuals to embrace technology positively while maintaining a healthy balance. By implementing educational campaigns and promoting responsible smartphone use from an early age, experts hope to empower individuals to make informed choices for a balanced and healthier digital lifestyle. It is crucial to address the pervasive issue of digital addiction and provide holistic solutions to ensure the well-being of individuals in our interconnected world.
