Why Unplugging Matters

Author Anne Lamott writes, “Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you.” After taking a break from technology as a community, we gain an appreciation for the role that it plays in our lives and we are better equipped to establish healthier tech habits going forward.

Take a listen to some of our advisors and partners explain how screens, devices and social media have had an impact on us.

They answer the question WHY UNPLUG to share a smile, encourage self-care, find better mental health and engage in real conversation.

Screen Shot 2021-12-28 at 2.08.20 PM.png

Research shows that health and human connection have been adversely impacted by overuse of technology.

- On average, children ages 8-12 in the United States spend 4-6 hours a day watching or using screens. Teens spend up to 9 hours. American Academy of Pediatrics Feb. 2020.
- About three-in-ten U.S. adults say they are ‘almost constantly’ online - Pew Research Center, March 2021
Six out of 10 adults are concerned about the influence technology has on their relationship with their children, and nearly one out of four wish they had more information about technology and parenting, but don’t know where to turn. Dr. David Schramm with Utah State University Extension
Experts are becoming increasingly concerned about the effects of blue light from these electronic devices on the sleep-wake cycle. An estimated two in three teenagers regularly sleep less than the recommended amount, and screen time may be responsible for sleep deprivation and other problems.
- There is now something called computer vision syndrome, also known as digital eye strain, marked by blurred vision, dry eyes and neck and shoulder pain.
- Our eyes aren’t built to read on screens. Several aspects — such as viewing angles and screen glare — force our eyes to work harder than they do while studying a printed page.