Is technology harming our brains?

Once upon a time, during the golden days of childhood, a seasonal highlight was the annual camp adventure. While I wasn't particularly drawn to any specific tradition, there was a delightful incentive to challenge oneself — commit a series of verses to memory and be rewarded with a bag of candy. The longer the verse, the sweeter the treat. So, I enthusiastically undertook the challenge of memorizing passages from various literary works, exchanging my efforts for a satisfying bag of sweets by the end of camp.

Reflecting on those carefree days brings a poignant comparison to the present. In that bygone era, my focus, learning, and memory were razor-sharp. However, as time unfolded, a subtle shift became apparent. Though my intellect remains keen, there's a lingering awareness that my concentration and memory aren't as steadfast as they once were.

The primary suspect behind this change? Technology.

In the past, the journey to earn our coveted treats was paved with what psychologists refer to as delayed gratification — the idea that hard work precedes the reward. Fast forward to today, and the landscape has transformed into a realm dominated by instant gratification, largely propelled by technological advancements. Platforms like TikTok, social media, online shopping, and even virtual dating have emerged as conduits for immediate pleasure, altering the dynamics of our experiences.

The Sweet Poison of Unlimited Dopamine

At the heart of this transformation lies dopamine, the neurotransmitter responsible for that feel-good sensation. Dr. Anna Lembke, a researcher from Stanford University, delves into the addictive nature of this constant dopamine release through social media. Our addiction is evident in the staggering statistic that, on average, we spend six hours online every day, with a significant chunk dedicated to scrolling through social media feeds.

But what harm does unlimited dopamine inflict on our minds? It compels us to spend an inordinate amount of time in the limbic area of our brain, responsible for emotions, rather than the pre-frontal cortex, our headquarters for planning and problem-solving. To make matters worse, when faced with challenges, we've become prone to outsourcing problem-solving to the omnipresent Google.

The Google Effect: A Memory Shift

Traditionally, we absorbed information by committing it to memory. However, a seismic shift, termed 'The Google Effect' by Harvard researchers in 2011, has altered this age-old approach. Instead of storing information in our brains, we've become adept at knowing where to find it. Faced with a complex question, rather than relying on our internal knowledge banks, we instinctively turn to Google, our trusty search engine.

Digital Dementia: A Foreboding Future

The final chapter of this tale is one that has compelled me to take action. It's called digital dementia, a term coined by a Canadian university. Their research reveals a disconcerting connection between excessive screen time during brain development years and an increased risk of Alzheimer's and dementia in adulthood. Young adults, immersed in the constant sensory stimulation of social media, exhibit signs of 'mild cognitive impairment,' a condition typically associated with brain injuries or the early stages of dementia.

The implications are grave. The researchers project that by the end of this century, Alzheimer's and dementia-related illnesses will surge four to six times their current prevalence. A dystopian future, where we find ourselves suing TikTok or Instagram for the destruction of our minds, doesn't seem far-fetched.

A Call to Arms: Mitigating the Harm

Amidst this digital onslaught, can we reclaim our cognitive fortitude? The answer lies in two simple yet powerful strategies.

Make Your Brain Work:

While the mass exodus from social media might not be realistic, we can introduce delayed gratification into our digital lives. By engaging in tasks like chores, homework, or reading before indulging in the digital realm, we make our brains work for the reward, curbing destructive habits.

Offset the Harm:

To counteract the negative effects of technology, we need to keep our minds active. Devote 1-2 hours daily to activities that engage your brain — be it puzzles, art, language learning, playing instruments, reading, or writing.

Closing Thoughts: You Hold the Power

In this narrative of technology's impact on our minds, it's crucial to discern between technologies that enrich and those that erode. Remember, you are the master of your attention, time, and life. By weaving delayed gratification and mental engagement into the fabric of our digital existence, we can steer our minds away from the perils of instant gratification, toward a future where our cognitive prowess remains intact. The story continues, and you are the author.