Source: Psychologies Magazine 2023
Introduction
Technology has been enriching our lives ever since the first television set came out and the first cellphone.
One thing’s for sure, AI has made life much easier and more productive than ever. I still remember back in the early 2000s how tech slowly evolved in our childhood. It was fascinating and amazing.
Millions of free internet games, DVDs, Blackberry cellphones, YouTube, etc.
But many of us might also realize how advanced the tech world has become and how it is continuing to develop.
According to Mo Gawdat (Former chief business officer of Google), AI technology is only going to become bigger and smarter as the years go by. He even states that machines have consciences now?! That sounds scary, right?
What does this mean for the modern person’s mental health?
Let’s examine some of the positive aspects of advancing technology.
Yes, for AI Tech!
Mo Gawdat further explains and emphasises that we tend to forget that advancing technology can bring out the best and worst of ourselves. Meaning it can lead to increasing self-awareness and growth.
But what does that mean?
What I think is that we become more attentive to our limitations and the mistakes we make. AI helps us realize that we need to think for ourselves at times and not fully rely on machinery that can make mistakes and have faults too.
Also, AI can help stimulate our creative thinking by adding suggestions to our already thought-out plans or strategies.
Another plus-point is that AI can help give the correct reassurance and helpful information about mental illness and how to cope in the moment, without substituting professional mental health care services.
Lastly, AI can help us develop our critical thinking skills by means of critically reviewing information being presented and not just follow every piece of statement blindly.
Take caution
There is the other side of the coin to take into consideration when it comes to advancing technology.
Here is what can go wrong if you go and misuse and abuse AI.
->You start by shutting down your own mental cognitions, meaning you program your brain to become lazy.
->You forget the joys and beauty of being human by becoming dependent on technology to do even basic tasks for you.
->You influence your mental health negatively by getting caught in doom scrolling.
->It can cause you to forget to stay in the moment due to the constant notifications on your cellphone.
Tips for a healthier use of technology
Mo Gawdat suggests the following for safer use of tech.
Engage in regular self-reflection, meaning think about your actions during the day, week, month and year. This is something that can’t be taken away from you.
Reflect on the time you have spent on using your digital gadgets and figure out what worked for you and what didn’t. Improve your digital usage by getting out of it only what benefits you and brings out the best in you. Eliminate all the bad stuff. We shouldn’t forget our humanity. Lastly, treat all technology with respect.
In conclusion
So, what is my thoughts on advancing technology?
Use it wisely and never allow it to consume you so much that you lose yourself in the process.