HOW IS THE INTERNET BAD FOR YOUR HEALTH? | AFFINITY HEALTH
While the Internet certainly has its benefits, according to Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality healthcare, it has also had several negative impacts on our health.
Before we explore the adverse health effects of the Internet, we must acknowledge its positive impact on our daily lives, making many tasks faster, easier, and more convenient.
Here are a few examples of how the Internet has simplified our lives:
Communication: Email, instant messaging, and social media platforms have made it possible for us to communicate with others instantly, no matter where they are located.
Education: The Internet has made it easier for people to access educational resources and learn new things. Online courses, tutorials, and educational videos are just a few clicks away, and they can be accessed from any device with an internet connection.
Shopping: The Internet has transformed how we shop, making it easier to find and purchase products from the comfort of our homes.
Entertainment: The Internet has made it easier to access a wide range of entertainment options, including movies, music, and television shows. Streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Spotify have made it easy to access content on demand. In addition, social media platforms have made discovering new artists and content creators easier.
Work: The Internet has made it easier for people to work remotely, thanks to the proliferation of cloud-based tools and video conferencing platforms. Many people can now work from home or other remote locations, increasing flexibility and reducing the need for long commutes.
Overall, the Internet has made our lives easier, from communication and education to shopping and entertainment. However, the Internet can also affect our mental and physical health and well-being.
Affinity Health highlights some ways in which the Internet can be bad for your health:
Digital Eye Strain
Prolonged use of screens can lead to eye strain, dry eyes, blurred vision, and headaches. This is known as digital eye strain, or computer vision syndrome, and is a common complaint among people who spend a lot of time in front of screens.
Sleep Disturbances
The blue light emitted by screens can disrupt the production of the sleep hormone melatonin, leading to sleep disturbances.
Sedentary Behaviour
The Internet has made it easier for people to work and access entertainment from home, leading to more sedentary behaviour. This lack of physical activity can increase the risk of obesity, heart disease, and other health problems.
Declined Mental Health
The anonymity of the Internet has made it easier for people to engage in cyberbullying, which can have severe consequences for mental health.
Social Isolation
While the Internet has made it easier to connect with people, it can also lead to social isolation if it is not used in moderation. Studies have shown that excessive use of social media can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression.
Financial Losses
The Internet has made it easier for scammers to trick people into giving away their personal information or money. This can lead to financial losses and even identity theft.
“While the Internet has many benefits, it is important to be aware of how it can affect our health and to take steps to protect ourselves,” says Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health.
“This can include taking breaks from screens, talking with your eye doctor about blue light protection and digital device use at your next eye examination, protecting yourself from cyberbullying and scams, and maintaining a balance between online and offline interactions,” concludes Hewlett.
About Affinity Health
Affinity Health is South Africa’s leading health insurance provider, offering you a range of options at affordable rates, including access to the widest national provider network. We understand the importance of medical insurance that meets your needs, budget, and lifestyle. Our range of healthcare products are designed to protect you and your family when it matters the most. We strive to give our clients peace of mind and the highest standard of service at all times. For more information, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.