Multitasking has become a common practice in today’s fast-paced world, but its effects on mental health are often overlooked. In this blog post, we will explore the impact of multitasking on mental well-being, backed by research and expert insights. We will also provide practical scenarios and examples to help understand the detrimental effects of multitasking on mental health.
Contrary to popular belief, multitasking does not lead to increased productivity. In fact, studies have shown that it can have detrimental effects on the brain’s structure and cognitive function. A study published by neuroscientists Kep Kee Loh and Dr Ryota Kanai from the University of Sussex research reveals that people who frequently use several media devices at the same time have lower grey matter density in one particular region of the brain compared to those who use just one device occasionally.
“I feel that it is important to create an awareness that the way we are interacting with the devices might be changing the way we think and these changes might be occurring at the level of brain structure.”
Neuroscientist Kep Kee Loh
For instance, a study revealed that multitasking made people more likely to exhibit behavioural distractibility, leading to difficulties in discerning important information.
Multitasking and Mental Health:
The practice of multitasking has been linked to various mental health issues, including increased anxiety, chronic stress, and depression. When individuals engage in multitasking, they expend all of their brain’s energy, leaving them with less capacity to manage emotions and everyday situations. This can result in heightened stress levels and emotional instability.
According to Tanya J. Peterson, “Multitasking can lead to an overall sense of anxiety as the brain struggles to juggle multiple tasks, which it is naturally more comfortable focusing on one at a time”. Furthermore, Travis Bradberry emphasizes that “Multitasking damages the brain and can have a negative impact on one’s career”.
The Impact of Media Multitasking:
Media multitasking, such as simultaneously scrolling through social media, watching a show, and browsing the web, has been associated with noticeable dips in mood and has shown a particularly strong correlation with depression and anxiety. For Example,
- A student attempts to study while constantly checking social media and responding to messages. As a result, they experience increased stress levels and find it challenging to retain information.
- A person who works from home tries to work on a project while attending a virtual meeting and responding to emails. This leads to heightened feelings of anxiety and a decrease in overall productivity.
Conclusion:
The myth of multitasking as a productivity booster needs to be debunked. The practice of multitasking can have severe implications for mental health, leading to increased anxiety, chronic stress, and depression. It is essential to prioritize focused attention and single-tasking to safeguard mental well-being in today’s hyper-connected world. By shedding light on the impact of multitasking on mental health and providing real-world examples, we hope to encourage individuals to reevaluate their approach to work and daily tasks, ultimately fostering a healthier relationship with technology and work demands.
References:
3. Peterson, Tanya J. “How Multitasking Hurts Mental Health,” healthyplace.com, 2019
4. Bradberry, Travis. “Multitasking Damages Your Brain and Career, New Studies Suggest,” Forbes, Oct.8, 2014
5. “The Myth of Multitasking – And How It Impacts Your Mental Health And Wellbeing,” humanconnections.com.au, 2020
