With the advent of technology we believed it made our lives easier. But, from replacing fun outdoor games with digital ones and a soulful face to face interaction with emojis, technology has managed to tamper with our lives.
Raising awareness about gadget addiction and its adverse effect on mental health these eclectic millennials are doing their best to avoid the impending doom.
Mohammed Saad the founder of Digitial Detox, a campaign and an organisation that promotes the idea of taking a break from gadgets and staying mentally fit, among young adults and millennials shares his journey.
Speaking about what inspired him to begin this initiative Saad says, “Most of us tend to blame the lack of sustainable government policies for the country’s slow growth in Economy. But, tweaking an individual’s attitude and lifestyle can also eventually contribute to the economy of our country. And for this, it is essential to stay mentally fit and be productive. With the largest youth population in the world we intend to inspire them to make use of their free time on relevant things than wasting time surfing the internet and getting addicted to gadgets.”
While most of our lives depend on gadgets and the internet, it is challenging to stay away from technology for a while. Giving a few tips on how we can still manage to detox Abiha Zainab, the director of the initiative says, “It’s best to take some time away from gadgets and the internet for a bit. You can prepare what we call a digital diet sheet which slates dedicated time for your activities online and strictly abide by it. You must also limit your checks online. By doing this you will discover a lot of time for yourself to rejuvenate and get to work fresh the next day.”
According to a report by the WHO, India is the world’s most depressed country and Saad believes internet and gadget addiction are the key reasons. He says, “The internet is a gateway to a whole lot of unfiltered information. From being bullied on social media to getting addicted to pornography and other unscrutinised games, several youngsters succumb to depression and exhibit a colossal difference in behaviour.”
Digital Detox offers free seminars pan India, courses on mental toughness, digitally detoxifying, student entrepreneurship and also detoxification camps.
Speaking about their aim Saad says, “Most of us just pick a problem and voice the issues that surround it but do not come out with a solution. But, we have identified the issue and are working on the solution of promoting a life that’s beyond gadgets and technology. We intend to empower the youth to make a difference in the society and use the internet moderately for a cause.”
