engleski

Digital well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, implementation and use of digital technology have been continuously increasing. Different digital tools proved to be helpful in situations affected by the epidemiological measures that came as a subsequent result of the pandemic. One can even argue that they have made our lives easier. In times when face to face contact was disabled, it was amazing to have at least virtual contact with those who we care about. When we were not able to go to work, remote working options have eased the situation. However, there are some downsides as well. Constant exposure to various unreliable online sources who are distributing misinformation can have detrimental effects on our daily functioning. Overabundant options provided by the digital tools can also be quite distractive and therefore our time management is jeopardized. Since we live in digital age where borders between online and offline realm are relatively blurred, concept of digital well-being has been introduced. Digital well-being basically answers the question to what extent technology is helpful or harmful to our mental, physical, social, and emotional health. The question is how to get the most out of digital tools, and not to get hurt throughout the entire process. Our studies have been looking into the interplay between COVID- 19, digital activity, and psychological well-being. Significant correlation was found between higher engagement in digital activities and decreased psychological well-being. This goes to say that our digital well-being has been negatively impacted during COVID-19 pandemic. Based on results obtained from our research, in this contribution we will try to provide with some insights on how to decrease the current negative trend and improve our digital well-being. As the COVID- 19 situation continues, and we are by each day becoming more reliant on technology, it is crucial to take necessary steps to keep ourselves healthy, both online and offline.

digital well-being ; COVID-19 ; mental health

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