OPINION - Has Technology Impacted the Level of Isolation and Depression in Today's Society? by Sebastian Padilla

Please enjoy this opinion piece from DMHS's "Introduction to Journalism" class!

Do you find yourself always scrolling through social media? Or never leaving your house? Well if you do, this article is for you.  I believe technology has made human society isolated and depressed, along with making you feel unaccomplished. 

According to the GFC Global (GCF Global Learning, doing business as Goodwill Community Foundation, operates as a non-profit organization, the organization offers jobs, training, flood relief materials, serving children and adults with disabilities, and related services, Goodwill Community Foundation serves customers in the United States) “Many experts believe that having constant access to technology, specifically smartphones, can prevent us from making personal connections”. This means that the natural human need for social connection is being jeopardized by technology. When this natural need is not met, humans tend to feel lonely or depressed.  I have experienced days where I have been on my phone for a long period of time and it made me feel sad and lonely. I also feel that when you are on technology for too long you feel drained of all energy.  

GFC Global also said that “Too much social media usage can cause emotional harm, a 2017 study found that heavy social media users were three times more likely to feel socially isolated than casual users” (The University of Arizona study supports this idea). Thus, social media allows people to talk to their loved ones without getting their personal connection needs met. The National Library of Medicine says “Socially disconnected older adults are also vulnerable to a range of health disorders, including infection, high blood pressure, impaired cognitive function, depression, stress etc…” This shows some of the many ways technology has impacted human society negatively. I would feel unaccomplished and filled with stress about the days to come. 

In conclusion, Technology has made human society isolated and depressed, along with many other mental issues. If you always find yourself scrolling through social media? Or never leaving your house? I hope this article helped you keep yourself mentally healthy so you or your loved ones don’t worry.   

Sebastian Padilla is an 8th grader at DMHS. He hopes to work in the film industry when he grows up.