Brain Micro-Briefing: Can the internet and its new technologies adversely affect our mental health?
We often hear that the internet is bad for our mental and brain health. Even the Australian government recently proposed a social media ban for children under 16 for this very reason. But if you’re over / close to 50, being active online might actually be beneficial! New research looked at over 87,500 older adults from 23 countries and found that those with more frequent internet use had reduced depression symptoms, increased life satisfaction, and better health. This effect was likely due to their virtual interactions reducing feelings of loneliness. The study was published in Nature Human Behaviour, with a summary by BBC’s Science Focus.
The conclusion is: The key is balance and the willingness to explore new topics and adapt yourself to new technological possibilities!
