![]() ![]() It is possible that technology users - especially those who use social media - are more aware of stressful events in the lives of their friends and family. We test the possibility that a specific activity, common to many of these technologies, might be linked to stress. We add to this debate with a large, representative study of American adults and explore an alternative explanation for the relationship between technology use and stress. ![]() Stress might come from maintaining a large network of Facebook friends, feeling jealous of their well-documented and well-appointed lives, the demands of replying to text messages, the addictive allure of photos of fantastic crafts on Pinterest, having to keep up with status updates on Twitter, and the “fear of missing out” on activities in the lives of friends and family. These technologies are said to takeover people’s lives, creating time and social pressures that put people at risk for the negative physical and psychological health effects that can result from stress. There is more social pressure to disclose personal information. ![]() It is easier now to track what friends, frenemies, and foes are doing and to monitor raises and falls in status on a near-constant basis. There are more possibilities for interruptions and distractions. There is more information flowing into people’s lives now than ever - much of it distressing and challenging. I can release because times get hard, but that doesn't mean I need to beat myself up in the process.It makes sense to wonder if the use of digital technology creates stress. I can relate, and refer to my circle, who want the best for me, and offer me perspective. I can relax and still work towards my goals. I'm appreciating the phrase, "relax, relate, release", more and more because it's confirmation that I will be alright. I'm learning that everything I want out of life will not come in the packaged deal that is in my imagination. I try to challenge myself, and do things outside my norm, so I can get the types of results I want (or hope to obtain.) I'm learning to "relax, relate, relax." I'm grateful enough to have friends and family, who love and support me, remind me how strong I am, and that I will be okay. I set personal goals for each week and/or day in order to feel better about my process. Something that I've realized that I'm doing is constantly working towards my goals. ![]() I'm learning how to take things day by day, and just to be grateful that I'm able to see another 24 hours. I find myself questioning everything at times, and wanting answers for everything, but I'm learning not everything is meant for me to see and understand RIGHT NOW. A 23 year old, college grad, who is navigating through this journey called life. If I'm being quiet honest, though, I still feel freak out, like everyone else who's in my shoes. I've read multiple quotes, telling me that my time is coming, and I just need to work hard, and be patient, which I believe is true. I've seen memes about Oprah getting fired from her first major job at 23. As a 23 year old, I see memes on social media on daily basis, telling me to trust the process. Today, I find myself using "relax, relate, release" to get my life. As a fan of the show, "A Different World", I laughed when Whitley was huffing and puffing, and making weird gestures, repeating "relax, relate, release", and I didn't think anything of it. Her therapist basically told her that she needed to chill, and take things day by day, and to be true to herself. Whitley Gilbert said it best, "relax, relate, release."ĭuring this episode, Whitley was freaking out about her life and visited her therapist in order to gather her life. ![]()
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