Our World Is Becoming Too Reliant on Technology, and It's Time to Power Down

In an era where screens dominate daily life, a growing chorus warns that our heavy reliance on technology is taking a toll—especially on younger generations. For Gen Z, raised in a digital world, the constant buzz of notifications and endless scrolling has reshaped social interactions, self-perception, and overall well-being. Recent studies reveal that 60% of Gen Z adults view social media's impact as negative, yet they still clock in more than seven hours a day on their phones.

This digital tethering hits hard in educational settings. University students often depend on the internet for everything from course materials and assignment submissions to discovering clubs and events. While the web promises to streamline learning, the reality is far more distracting. A staggering 97% of postsecondary students admit to using their phones for non-educational purposes during lectures, fragmenting focus and reducing efficiency.

The irony is clear: tools meant to empower us are instead overwhelming our minds. Research shows that this screen-based upbringing alters how young people connect with peers and the world around them, often leading to heightened anxiety and diminished real-world engagement. As one expert notes, stepping away from the digital noise isn't just beneficial—it's essential for mental and physical health.

Encouragingly, simple acts like designated screen-free zones or short digital detoxes can make a difference. By unplugging, individuals report sharper concentration, better sleep, and stronger interpersonal bonds. For students buried in coursework, even brief offline moments could reclaim the productivity the internet was supposed to provide.

Looking ahead, as technology evolves, so must our habits. Balancing connectivity with intentional disconnection could help Gen Z—and all of us—thrive in a hyper-digital age. For the full story, read the original article from Queen's Journal.