Staring at a screen too often can lead to serious screen addiction. Did you know that research has shown that a screen or technology addiction affects the same area of the brain as drugs and alcohol? Signs of severe screen addiction include:
- Depression and suicidal thoughts, as well as emerging mental health disorders
- Stressed or fractured relationships with friends and family
- Eating and sleeping disorders
- Erratic and disorganized behavior
- Inability to focus or complete tasks
Taking a break from technology for a determined period is known as a digital detox. There are many well-being benefits to doing a digital detox every now and then. These include:
- Being calmer and more content
- Being more productive
- Having healthier relationships
- Improved physical health
- Improved sleep
Of course, most offices can’t completely disconnect from technology and still conduct business, but there are some things you can do to implement a digital detox in your workplace:
- Take regular breaks. The most productive employees reportedly work for 52 minutes in a concentrated, constructive burst before having a 17-minute break. Encourage these breaks to be free from technology.
- Organize workplace yoga, or similar mindfulness activities. Even though sessions might have to be conducted virtually right now, practicing yoga or mindfulness still allows the mind, eyes and fingers to rest.
- Give everyone a digital detox buddy. A buddy system can help everyone realize the benefits of a digital detox.
Technology has many benefits but being able to unplug and have some time away from the screen can help your employees feel re-energized and more in touch with the world around them. Learn more about detoxing from tech at work in this Blue Cross® Virtual Well-Being webinar. You can also sign up for future employer-focused and general interest webinars here, where you’ll find past sessions and resources. Related:
- The Importance of Spreading Happiness at Work
- Help Employees Create Brain-Boosting Habits
- Leading Employees Through Change
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